Energy Certificate and Tenant Mistakes in Finland
As a tenant in Finland, you should understand the role of the energy performance certificate in rental relationships and the most common mistakes made when rent is determined or increased. This article explains clearly how the certificate should not be used to justify unwarranted rent hikes, when a tenant can request clarification and how to document conversations and repairs. It also covers how to complain about unclear demands, what evidence to collect and how to seek assistance from authorities or legal advisors. The content is aimed at Finnish tenants and provides concrete action tips, timelines and contact information for handling disputes. Read the law and your lease terms carefully before negotiating. Keep rent receipts, messages and photos safe, and respond in writing to any claims. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can seek resolution through negotiation first and, if necessary, bring the matter to authorities or district court.[1]
What is an energy performance certificate and its relation to rent?
The energy performance certificate indicates a building's assessed energy efficiency but does not by itself authorize a unilateral rent increase. Rent determination depends on the lease, local practices and the law. A landlord must justify any increase and follow the legally and contractually required notice periods.[2]
An energy performance certificate does not replace contractual rent change procedures.
Common mistakes
- Unjustified rent increase based solely on the certificate without contractual or legal basis.
- Oral or unclear notice of increase without written explanation and a deadline.
- Passing repair and energy improvement costs to the tenant without agreement.
- Poor documentation: missing photos, receipts and messages that weaken the tenant's position in a dispute.
- Delayed contact or response that can limit rights or negotiation options.
Keep all conversations and receipts stored securely as email or printed copies.
How to act in practice
- Collect evidence: photos, messages, receipts and the lease immediately when the issue arises.
- Send a written, timely notice to the landlord requesting a written explanation for the increase.
- Do not stop payments without negotiation; if needed, pay a portion and clearly state the reason for the payment.
- Contact advisory services or tenant support if you do not receive a reply.
- Consider filing a complaint with authorities or pursuing legal action if the issue persists or demands are clearly unfounded.
Respond to written demands within deadlines so you do not lose rights.
FAQ
- Can a landlord increase the rent solely based on an energy certificate?
- No; an increase must be justified according to the lease, law or local practice and notified appropriately.
- What should I do if an increase seems unjustified?
- Request a written explanation, collect evidence and negotiate with the landlord. If no agreement is reached, seek resolution from authorities or the courts.[2]
- Where can I find official information on rental law?
- Up-to-date legislation is available on Finlex and legal assistance information on oikeus.fi.[1]
How-To
- Request a written explanation for the rent increase and the deadline.
- Save all messages, receipts and photos in chronological order and back them up.
- Contact advisory or consumer services for guidance on next steps.
- If unresolved, file a complaint with authorities or pursue the case in district court.
Timely documentation and written communication increase the chances of resolving disputes efficiently.
Help and Support
- Finlex: legislation and translations
- Oikeus.fi: court and legal services
- KKV.fi: consumer and competition authority
