Notification Deadlines for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark, it can be difficult to keep track of when a landlord must notify you of changes, work, or access to the property. This guide explains the main notices and deadlines, what to do for necessary repairs, and who typically pays for maintenance. You will find concrete forms and step-by-step advice on documenting problems, submitting complaints, and using official forms. The language is plain, and examples show common situations such as heating, water damage, or minor repair work. The aim is to give you confidence in conversations with your landlord and help you protect your rights without complicated legal jargon.
When must the landlord notify?
The landlord should generally give reasonable notice before carrying out work, accessing the home, or making changes. What counts as "reasonable notice" depends on the scope: planned maintenance should be announced in good time, while urgent repairs may require immediate access. Many rules about notification are found in the Tenancy Act (Lejeloven)[1].
Repairs and who pays
In general, the landlord pays for larger repairs and issues affecting habitability, while the tenant typically handles minor, everyday maintenance. If damage makes the home uninhabitable or significantly reduces its use, contact the landlord as soon as possible and consider guidance or complaint options at the Rent Tribunal (Huslejenævnet)[3] or find forms on Borger.dk[2].
How to document problems
Documentation is often crucial in a dispute. The following simple steps help you gather evidence:
- Take photos (photo) of the damage with dates and keep copies.
- Keep receipts for expenses such as parts or tradespeople (receipt).
- Keep a short log of dates and times for messages and visits (time/deadline).
- Send written notice to the landlord and keep a copy (notice/form).
Deadlines and practical forms
Certain situations have set deadlines, for example notice periods for rent increases or complaints to the Rent Tribunal. Official forms and guidance are available on Borger.dk and Huslejenaevn.dk. If the landlord does not respond or repairs are delayed, send a written reminder and then file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or consider legal options.
FAQ
- How much notice must the landlord give to carry out repairs?
- There is no single rule for all repairs; the notice period depends on extent and nature. Agree and document a practical timetable and refer to the Tenancy Act if needed.[1]
- Who pays for wear-and-tear repairs?
- Typically the landlord covers larger repairs due to wear and tear, while the tenant covers minor maintenance or damage caused by the tenant.
- How do I complain if the landlord does not respond?
- Start with written documentation and a reminder; if this does not work, you can file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice.[3]
How-To
- Document the damage with photos and note dates.
- Send written notice to the landlord requesting repair.
- Allow a reasonable period for response depending on the nature of the work.
- If there is no resolution, file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal or seek legal help.
- Keep copies of all documents, responses, and receipts.
Key Takeaways
- Respond within applicable deadlines to protect your rights.
- Landlords are often responsible for major repairs affecting habitability.
- Good documentation improves the outcome in disputes.
