Does Electricity, Water and Heat Count as Rent in Finland
Many tenants in Finland ask whether electricity, water and heating are included in the rent and what the lease and housing-related law specify in detail. This article provides clear advice on the responsibilities of landlords and tenants, how service costs are typically divided, what billing details to request in writing and how to act if charges seem unclear or incorrect. I also explain when an extra charge is justified and when it may be unlawful, how to collect evidence, and what steps to try first by negotiating to resolve a disagreement. Basic legal points and practical tips can also be found from official sources.[1] If negotiation does not produce results, you can turn to the Consumer Disputes Board or the district court depending on the situation.[2] Remember to act promptly and keep all invoices and messages safe.
What does rent usually cover?
The lease specifies which services and costs are included in the rent. It is important to read the contract line by line and note whether electricity or heating costs are specified separately.
- Base rent and fixed monthly fee (payment) — often the base rent covers only housing without services.
- Electricity consumption and related charge (payment) — sometimes electricity is billed by the landlord, sometimes by the tenant.
- Water and wastewater charges (payment) — may be included or billed separately.
- Heating (payment) — district heating or apartment-specific heating is interpreted according to the contract.
How to interpret the contract and bills?
Start by checking the written lease: look for mentions of services, billing methods and responsibility allocation. If the contract is unclear, ask the landlord for clarification in writing.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request a clear breakdown (contact).
- Request invoices and contract documents for inspection or copies (form).
- Save receipts, electricity and water meter readings and messages as evidence (evidence).
- If the issue is not resolved, guidance and legal information are available from authorities and the matter can be escalated if necessary (court).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is electricity consumption always included in the rent?
- No. Whether electricity is included depends on what is agreed in the lease; check the contract and request a breakdown if necessary.
- Can the landlord charge a separate fee for heating?
- Yes, if the contract specifies heating costs or if the law and contract terms allow it. The justification and breakdown of the charge must be requested in writing.
- How is a dispute with the landlord resolved?
- Start by negotiating in writing; if that does not help, you can approach the Consumer Disputes Board or the courts depending on the situation.
How-To
- Contact the landlord in writing and request a breakdown of the bills (contact).
- Collect evidence: receipts, meter readings and messages (evidence).
- If the situation cannot be agreed, file a complaint with the Consumer Disputes Board or seek legal action in the district court (file).
Key takeaways
- Always notify the landlord in writing first and keep copies of communications.
- Gather and store all invoices, receipts and meter readings as evidence.
- Check the lease and consult official sources if needed.
Help and support
- Finlex — legislation and rules on tenancy: Finlex.
- The Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV) and the Consumer Disputes Board: KKV.
- Oikeus.fi provides information on court procedures and guidance: Oikeus.fi[3].
