Security Deposit Deductions for Tenants in Finland

If you are a tenant in Finland and want to make a deduction from the security deposit for repairs or damages, this guide walks you through each step. We explain when a deduction is legal, what repairs can be covered from the deposit, and how to document defects or damages. Practical tips cover the obligation to notify the landlord, estimating repair costs, and saving evidence such as photos and receipts. The guide also covers disputes, mediation and the court process if needed. The goal is to provide a clear action plan to help protect your rights and ensure the deposit is used only for reasonable and actual costs. Additionally, we explain how to assess the reasonableness of repair costs, how to request a repair estimate and how to consider normal wear and tear differences. Finally, we provide a checklist and instructions for keeping documents.

What does a deduction mean?

A deduction means a situation where the tenant or landlord considers that part of the security deposit can be used to cover repairs or compensation. In Finland, rights and obligations related to tenancy are found in housing legislation and in the Act on Residential Leases, which defines repair obligations and the grounds for using the deposit.^[1]

When can the deposit be deducted?

• When the damage is real and the repair is the responsibility of the landlord or tenant.
• When you have photos, receipts or other evidence of the costs.
• When you have first notified the landlord in writing and given them the chance to fix the issue.
• When the deduction corresponds to actual and reasonable repair costs, not normal wear and tear.

How to document and calculate a deduction

Good documentation makes a claim credible: take clear photos of the damage, request written repair estimates and keep receipts. A written notice to the landlord is often decisive evidence that you have tried to resolve the issue amicably.^[2]

• Take dated photos of the situation immediately.
• Keep all receipts and repair invoices.
• Send the landlord a written complaint and request a written response.
• Calculate only the actual costs and consider normal wear and tear.

Disputes and resolution

If the landlord does not accept the deduction, first try negotiation or mediation. If settlement fails, parties can seek mediation or take the case to the Consumer Disputes Board or district court as appropriate.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord deduct normal wear and tear from the security deposit?

Generally no; damage from normal wear and tear is usually not deductible from the deposit unless otherwise agreed.

What documents do I need for a deduction?

You need photos, repair invoices, receipts and a written notice to the landlord.

Where do I complain if the disagreement continues?

You can seek mediation, ask local advisory services, or bring the case to the Consumer Disputes Board or district court depending on the situation.

How to proceed

1. Notify the landlord in writing about the damage and request repairs.
2. Take photos and collect all receipts and messages.
3. Request a written repair estimate from a reliable professional.
4. Calculate a reasonable cost and notify the landlord of the deduction with justification.
5. Seek mediation or advice from local services if necessary.
6. Proceed to court only if negotiations and mediation do not resolve the matter.

Help and Support

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases and summaries
• Oikeus.fi: guidance and forms for disputes
• KKV: advice and the Consumer Disputes Board

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi: Guidance and forms
3. [3] KKV: Consumer Disputes Board and advice