Who Pays for Access to Contractors in Denmark

Maintenance & repairs (who pays what) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025
Tenants in Denmark often face situations where contractors need access to the home. This article explains the typical rules about notice, who bears the costs for access and repairs, and how you as a tenant best document the work and protect your rights. We cover the difference between routine maintenance and landlord responsibility, what applies in an emergency, and how you can get help from the Rent Tribunal or Borger.dk if disagreements arise. Read step by step how to respond, which documents to keep, and which deadlines are important in Denmark for tenancy and contractor visits. [1][2][3]

When can a landlord demand access?

A landlord can normally demand access to carry out repairs and maintenance but must give appropriate notice unless it is an emergency. What counts as appropriate notice depends on the type of work; for routine repairs tenants should be notified well in advance, while emergencies like water damage may allow access without notice. See the Rent Act for specific rules about access and notice. [1]

In emergencies, access may occur with little or no notice to limit damage.

Who pays for access?

The short answer is: it depends on who is responsible for the repair. If the damage or need for work is due to normal wear or the landlords responsibility, the landlord pays. If the damage is caused by the tenants actions or negligence, the tenant may be asked to pay. Lease agreements can also affect the allocation, but unreasonable terms can be challenged. If parties disagree, the Rent Tribunal or courts can decide the case. [2]

  • The landlord normally pays for repairs and the contractors work when the landlord is responsible.
  • The tenant may be asked to cover costs if the damage results from the tenants actions or neglect.
  • Minor consumable repairs may be the tenants responsibility by agreement; check the contract.
Keep documentation such as photos and receipts when contractors enter your home.

Practical steps for tenants

When you are notified that a contractor needs access, follow these steps to protect your rights and avoid unnecessary costs.

  • Check your lease for clauses on access and allocation of responsibility.
  • Request written notice with the date, purpose, and an estimated cost if relevant.
  • Document the damage or work with photos, dates, and the contractors name.
  • Contact the Rent Tribunal or Borger.dk for guidance if you disagree about payment.
Respond in writing to requests and keep all correspondence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord enter without notice for planned work?
No, for planned work the landlord should normally give appropriate notice unless it is an emergency.
Who pays if contractors need elevator access or special arrangements?
Costs for special access arrangements can be disputed; generally the party responsible for the work pays, but check the contract and document expenses.
What can I do if the landlord asks me to pay for routine maintenance?
Gather documentation and file a complaint with the Rent Tribunal; unreasonable demands may be overturned on appeal.

How to

  1. Check the lease for rules on access and payment responsibility.
  2. Request written notice and clear information about why contractors need to enter.
  3. Take photos before and after the work and keep receipts and messages.
  4. Contact the Rent Tribunal or Borger.dk if you cannot agree with the landlord.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] The Rent Act on Retsinformation
  2. [2] Borger.dk - tenant rights and guidance
  3. [3] The Rent Tribunal - complaints and guidance

Categories

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Denmark

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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