Postponing an Eviction Schedule for Tenants in Finland
When a landlord seeks eviction or a legal enforcement proceeds, as a tenant you can request a postponement of the eviction schedule under certain conditions. This article explains when and how to apply for a postponement in Finland, which documents and evidence are needed, and how documentation and contacting authorities affect the outcome. It also covers deadlines, alternative solutions such as payment plans and how to use official applications. Additionally, I discuss negotiations with the landlord, case-specific actions, and when to seek help from the KKV or legal aid. The text is intended for tenants without legal background: I avoid complex terms and clearly outline the next steps to help you protect your right to housing and prepare for possible legal proceedings.
What a postponement means
A postponement of the eviction schedule means changing the deadline to a later date so the tenant gains additional time, for example to implement payment arrangements or obtain legal assistance. The postponement is requested by an official application or in a response, and a court or legal representative may grant it based on the circumstances.[1]
Tenants may have the right to a postponement for justified reasons.
When to apply for postponement
You should apply for a postponement as soon as you know eviction is pending or when you have received a written eviction notice. Submit the application before the original deadline because delay can weaken the chance of approval.
Required documents
- The lease agreement and a signed copy
- Payment receipts, transfers or bank statements showing payment history
- Correspondence with the landlord, emails and photos of any issues
- A medical certificate or other official statement if delay is due to health reasons
Detailed documentation improves the chances of obtaining a postponement.
Actions before the deadline
- Contact the landlord immediately and propose a payment plan or settlement
- Prepare an official application for postponement and attach the necessary enclosures
- Check deadlines and ensure the application is sent before the original period expires
- Seek advice from consumer authorities like the KKV or from legal aid services
Respond to official written demands on time, otherwise your rights may be weakened.
Usein kysytyt kysymykset
- Can any tenant request a postponement of the eviction schedule?
- Yes, a tenant can request a postponement, but the court assesses the request on the grounds and evidence provided.
- Do I need a lawyer for the postponement application?
- Not always, but legal advice can help prepare the application and collect the necessary evidence.
- Can a postponement prevent eviction entirely?
- A postponement provides extra time to resolve the matter but does not necessarily remove the obligation to pay or permanently avoid vacating the premises.
- Where do I find forms or instructions for the application?
- Official instructions and forms are available on oikeus.fi and Finlex which host legal and court guidance.[2]
Ohjeet
- Check the eviction notice and the original deadlines.
- Gather the lease, payment receipts and other evidence.
- Contact the landlord and propose a solution or payment plan.
- Write and submit the official postponement application with attachments.
- If the case proceeds to court, submit evidence and reasons for postponement to the district court.[2]
- Seek advice from the KKV or legal aid services if needed.[3]
Help and Support
- Finlex: legislation and Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
- Oikeus.fi: court instructions and services
- KKV: consumer guidance and tenant advice
