Leaks and Mold: Tenant Deadlines in Finland
As a tenant in Finland it is important to know what to do as soon as a leak or mold is discovered in your home. This article explains clearly a tenant's rights and responsibilities, how to document damage, when and how to notify the landlord, and what deadlines and repair obligations the law sets. I also explain how to protect your own safety and habitability, what evidence to collect and when to seek help from authorities or contact consumer advice. Examples and practical tips are aimed especially at tenants who want to act quickly and properly in problem situations in Finland. I also explain how to make a written notice, what photos and measurements to take, and how long the landlord has to respond before a tenant may be entitled to demand repair or a rent reduction.
Immediate steps for leaks and mold
Start by assessing the situation and ensuring your safety: if smell or mold causes health problems, get temporary shelter or leave the dwelling if necessary. Notify the landlord immediately, preferably in writing, so you have proof of the notice.
- Report the problem to the landlord in writing and request a response within a reasonable time.
- Take clear photos and record the locations where moisture or mold is visible.
- If the odor or mold affects health, seek a medical assessment and keep records.
Documentation and evidence
Good documentation improves your chances of getting repairs or compensation. Collect photos from different angles, dated notes and any moisture meter readings. Save messages with the landlord and request confirmation of receipt if you notify by phone.
- Take photos and store them in multiple places for backup.
- Keep a log of messages, calls and notice dates.
- Keep receipts for any costs such as temporary accommodation or repair bills.
Notifying and deadlines
It is recommended that the tenant makes a written notification to the landlord as soon as possible so repairs can begin. The landlord's repair obligations and the tenant's rights are regulated in the Act on Residential Leases.[1] If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, the tenant may have the right to demand repair, carry out the repair and claim compensation or a rent reduction depending on the duration of the problem.[2]
- Send a written notice and ask the landlord to confirm receipt.
- If repairs are not made, request a repair schedule in writing and demand actions if needed.
- Keep receipts and invoices if you have to commission repairs yourself or claim compensation.
When to seek help
If the matter is not resolved with the landlord, you can consider bringing the dispute to the Consumer Disputes Board or pursuing it in court for legal protection.[3] For legal procedures, oikeus.fi provides guidance on processes and required forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How quickly should I notify the landlord about a leak or mold?
- Notify as soon as you discover a leak or mold and make the notification in writing so you have proof of the situation.
- Can I have the repair carried out myself if the landlord does not respond?
- If the landlord does not repair within a reasonable time, you can usually commission the repair yourself and claim compensation, but document all actions and costs carefully.
- Which authorities can I contact in a dispute?
- In disputes, first try to reach an agreement with the landlord and, if needed, use the Consumer Disputes Board or seek court action.
How to act
- Notify the landlord in writing and request confirmation of receipt.
- Take photos, record observations with dates and keep messages.
- Request repairs in writing and monitor the timeline, demanding actions if necessary.
- If the problem is not resolved, explore dispute options or legal action.
