When Tenants Should Check Consumption Bills in Denmark
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
2 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark, it is important to know your rights and routines around consumption bills for heating, water and electricity. Bills can include a conto payments and a final settlement; therefore you should check usage, verify meter readings and compare with your lease. Checking the bill helps avoid large surprises and makes it easier to act quickly on errors or discrepancies. This guide explains when to check consumption bills, which documents to request, how to interpret a conto versus final settlement, and what steps you can take including contacting the rent tribunal or courts if necessary. Keep proper records of meter readings and receipts. It can make a complaint process easier.
When should you check the consumption bill?
You should check the consumption bill as soon as you receive it, for major consumption deviations and when the landlord notifies a conto adjustments. The Lease Act contains rules about disclosure and what the landlord must show you [1].
Respond to notices within the deadline to preserve your rights.
Typical times to check
- When you receive the bill — check settlement dates and periods.
- When a conto payments change or you see an unexpected increase in amounts.
- If meter readings or usage seem incorrect — compare with previous receipts and readings.
- Before accepting refunds or charges — review the itemised calculations and receipts.
- When the landlord plans inspections or readings, ask for documentation of the readings.
Detailed documentation increases the chance of success in a complaint.
When reviewing the bill, request: meter readings for period start and end, calculation of a conto and allocation key, receipts for payments and any external invoices. Keep copies of everything and note dates of receipt.
FAQ
- When do I have the right to receive the consumption bill?
- You have the right to receive the consumption bill when the landlord issues it, and sometimes when the account is closed. See the Lease Act for details [1].
- What do I do if the amount seems incorrect?
- Request a detailed breakdown and documentation from the landlord, compare meter readings and receipts, and contact the rent tribunal if you cannot agree [2].
- When must I pay a possible additional charge?
- Payment deadlines are usually stated in the bill or your lease; do not pay without reviewing the documentation and getting advice if needed.
How to
- Check dates and deadlines in the received bill immediately.
- Gather documentation: meter readings, receipts and past bills.
- Send a written request to the landlord with specific questions and ask for attachments.
- Contact the rent tribunal if the disagreement continues; they can help mediate or decide [2].
- Consider legal assistance or court only if the case cannot be resolved via the rent tribunal.
Key takeaways
- Check the bill immediately upon receipt to meet deadlines.
- Collect and keep meter readings and receipts as evidence.
- Always send written requests to the landlord before filing a formal complaint.
