Maintenance and Bills for Tenants in Denmark
As a tenant in Denmark you have the right to secure living conditions and insight into who must pay for maintenance and repairs. This article explains which documents you can request, how to review invoices and supplier agreements, and what steps to take if you dispute a charge. We also cover practical actions such as gathering documentation, writing a formal objection and contacting the Rent Tribunal or relevant authorities to resolve disputes. The language is plain, and the steps are targeted to tenants so you can act confidently and effectively in Denmark without prior legal expertise.
What documents are covered by the right to inspect?
As a tenant you can generally request documentation showing costs and agreements related to the property. This can include invoices from craftsmen, agreements with suppliers, quotes and receipts, as well as internal notes explaining the scope of work. If the landlord charges via the rent, you are entitled to see the basis for the amount.[1]
Which documents should you request?
- Invoices from craftsmen and suppliers showing date, description of work and amount.
- Contracts or agreements with external suppliers and service providers.
- Quotes, order confirmations and work orders describing the agreed work.
- Receipts for materials and any internal accounting entries related to the task.
Who pays for maintenance and repairs?
It depends on the type of work and what the lease states. Ordinary wear and small repairs are often the tenant's responsibility, while larger maintenance and structural repairs are usually the landlord's responsibility. Check the lease and the applicable rules in the Rent Act for specific boundaries and exceptions.[1]
How to dispute an invoice or supplier agreement
- Gather all documentation: invoices, photos of damage, the lease and correspondence.
- Send a formal objection to the landlord requesting documentation and explaining your dispute.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement; they can assess the case without initial costs for you.
- Consider legal action as a last resort, especially for larger amounts or principled issues.
Practical advice for document handling
- Keep all receipts and emails organized so you can present evidence easily.
- Track amounts, payment dates and any partial payments to ensure the accounting matches.
- Be aware of deadlines for objections and complaints to the Rent Tribunal.
Ofte stillede spørgsmål
- Can I get insight into an invoice if the landlord refuses?
- Yes, you can request documentation and refer to your right to inspect; if the landlord refuses you can complain to the Rent Tribunal.[2]
- Who pays if a repair is due to ordinary wear?
- Ordinary wear is typically the tenant's responsibility, while major structural works are the landlord's. Check the lease and the Rent Act for details.[1]
- How long does a complaint at the Rent Tribunal take?
- Processing times vary, but the Rent Tribunal seeks to resolve matters promptly; prepare documentation to speed up the process.[2]
How to
- Find and review your lease for relevant terms about maintenance and payment.
- Request in writing to inspect invoices and supplier agreements with a clear deadline.
- Send a formal objection to the landlord if the documentation does not support the charge.
- File a complaint with the Rent Tribunal, including all documentation.
- Follow up and be prepared to use the case record in possible litigation.
Key takeaways
- Documentation is often the decisive element in a dispute over bills.
- Always put requests and objections in writing and set clear deadlines.
- Use the Rent Tribunal early for a cost-effective solution.
