Student Tenant Mistakes in Finland

Students often make mistakes when searching for or living in rental housing, but many problems can be avoided with simple measures. This article helps tenants in Finland identify the most common pitfalls: contract details, tracking rent payments, repair responsibilities and how to act in disputes. We explain what a written lease means and which terms are especially important to check, and provide advice on documentation and seeking official help ^[1][2][3]

Common mistakes

• You do not read the lease carefully before signing (form).
• You do not check the rent increase terms or payment basis (rent).
• You do not keep receipts and documents for rent payments (document).
• You do not report repair needs promptly or ignore moisture and mold issues (repair).
• You move in without clear agreement on keys and inspections (entry).
• You are unaware of your rights in disputes or delay filing complaints (court).

When considering signing, pay attention to rent amount, rent increase clauses, notice periods and who is responsible for repairs. A written lease protects both parties and serves as crucial evidence in possible disputes.

When and how to document

Always document rent payments with receipts or bank records and keep messages with the landlord. If the apartment has defects, report them in writing and take photos or videos of the condition. Also save any repair requests and responses.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if the landlord does not fix a defect that is dangerous?

Report the defect in writing, document the situation with photos and request repair within a reasonable time. If repair is delayed, seek guidance from authorities and, if necessary, pursue compensation ^[1].

Can the landlord raise the rent other than as stated in the contract?

Rent increases must be based on the agreement or legal grounds; unilateral increases that contradict the contract are not valid without agreement or legal justification ^[1].

Whom should I contact if I want to complain about marketing practices or contract terms?

For consumer complaints you can seek advice and guidance from the Competition and Consumer Authority and, if necessary, file a complaint or pursue further handling of the matter ^[2].

How-To

1. Check the lease: read every line and note unclear points (form).
2. Save receipts: keep all payment receipts and messages with the landlord (document).
3. Report defects in writing and request repairs within a reasonable time (repair).
4. Seek advice or file a complaint with authorities if the problem is not solved through discussion (call).

Help and Support / Resources

• Finlex – legislation and statutes
• KKV — Competition and Consumer Authority
• Oikeus.fi — justice services and guidance

1. [1] Finlex — Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] KKV — Competition and Consumer Authority
3. [3] Oikeus.fi — Justice services and guidance