Who pays for tenant viewings in Denmark
As a tenant, it can be unclear who pays for viewings when a property is re-let or sold. This guide explains your rights in Denmark, how responsibility is usually divided between tenant and landlord, and which expenses are reasonable to ask to be covered. You get practical advice on how to document contact, agree on access and any compensation, and what you may refuse. The text also shows how to complain to the rent tribunal[2] or seek legal guidance if disputes arise. The goal is to make it easier for you to act correctly and protect your rights as a tenant without unnecessary hassle.
Who pays for viewings?
The general practice is that the landlord arranges and pays for viewings in connection with re-letting or sale. Under the Rent Act the landlord cannot charge unreasonable costs to the tenant, and access must be arranged with prior agreement.[1]
The Rent Act protects the tenant's right to privacy.
When the property is re-let
For re-letting the landlord will often handle advertising, viewings and contact with interested parties. The tenant must usually allow access if it is agreed in the lease or if reasonable notice is given. Always agree times and any compensation in writing.
Make sure to get all agreements about access and compensation in writing.
When the property is sold
When a rented property is sold, the buyer may want viewings. The landlord is normally responsible for coordination, but the tenant has a right to reasonable notice and can require viewings at times that do not unduly interfere.
Practical tips
- Document all communication with dates, times and names of visitors.
- Agree on concrete times and avoid accepting frequent or very short notices.
- Agree on compensation if viewings cause inconvenience or extra costs.
- Say no to unreasonable demands from the landlord, explain in writing and keep records.
Respond to messages and notices within the stated deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I as a tenant have to pay for viewings?
- No. As a rule the landlord pays for viewings; the tenant can only be asked to pay if this has been clearly agreed in advance.
- Can the landlord require access without my permission?
- The landlord cannot simply demand unrestricted access. Access must be reasonable, given with sufficient notice and preferably agreed in writing.
- What do I do if I and the landlord disagree?
- Try to negotiate first. If you cannot agree, you can complain to the local rent tribunal or seek guidance via borger.dk.
How to
- Give written notice to the landlord about your preferred times and access arrangements.
- Document all agreements, messages and visit dates.
- Propose reasonable compensation if viewings cause extra costs.
- Refuse unreasonable demands and explain your reasons in writing.
- Contact the rent tribunal or find relevant forms on borger.dk if a dispute arises.[3]
Key takeaways
- The landlord usually bears responsibility for viewings.
- Always get agreements in writing to protect your rights.
Help and Support
- [1] Lejeloven — Retsinformation
- [2] Huslejenævn — huslejenaevn.dk
- [3] Borger.dk — guidance and forms
