Who is responsible for the smoke alarm?

Usually the landlord is responsible for the general safety of the dwelling and the condition of smoke alarms at handover, but the tenant must report defects and handle basic upkeep.

Can a tenant withhold rent if a repair is not made?

Before withholding rent, it is recommended to seek advice and follow legal procedures while documenting defects and contacts.

Which authority should I contact in a problem situation?

Start by contacting consumer or housing advice; for serious issues the court and enforcement instructions are available on official sites.

Smoke Alarms & Fire Safety for Tenants in Finland

Dwelling condition & health (mould, damp, safety) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

Fire safety is an essential part of daily life for tenants, and in Finland rights and responsibilities are based on tenancy rules. This article reviews common mistakes with smoke alarms and other fire safety issues, how to spot risks, what to report to the landlord, and what to do if defects are not fixed. We also advise on documentation, timelines and official complaint or dispute processes so tenants can understand next steps and protect their health and property in Finland.

Responsibilities and legislation

Generally the landlord is responsible for the safety of the dwelling and that smoke alarms are functional at the time of handover, but the tenant must report defects and take care of daily use. Exact obligations are found in residential tenancy legislation^[1] and local guidance, which should be consulted if needed.

Keep a testing and maintenance log for your smoke alarms.

Common mistakes

No regular testing or missing test calendar (calendar)
Neglecting battery changes and maintenance or delaying repairs (repair)
Failing to notify the landlord when a defect is found (notice)
Lack of documentation, photos and receipts for repair requests (evidence)
Using inappropriate heating or electrical devices that increase fire risk (safety)
Disputes over rent reductions or compensation for repair costs (rent)

When you detect a defect, report it in writing and keep receipts and messages. If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, the next steps are outlined below.

Written documentation is often decisive in disputes.

How to document defects

Take photos and keep a dated log of defects and notification attempts (evidence)
Send repair requests by email or registered mail and keep copies (notice)
Record dates when you tested the alarm or changed batteries (calendar)

Steps if repairs are not made

If the landlord does not fix a fire safety deficiency in a reasonable time, try to resolve it by negotiation first. Seek advice from consumer or housing advice services and, if necessary, bring the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board or court^[2]. Act promptly as safety issues may need immediate attention.

Act quickly if fire safety immediately endangers health or property.

FAQ

Who is responsible for the smoke alarm?: Usually the landlord is responsible for the general safety of the dwelling and the condition of smoke alarms at handover, but the tenant must report defects and handle basic upkeep.
Can a tenant withhold rent if a repair is not made?: Before withholding rent, it is recommended to seek advice and follow legal procedures while documenting defects and contacts.
Which authority should I contact in a problem situation?: Start by contacting consumer or housing advice; for serious issues the court and enforcement instructions are available on official sites^[3].

How-To

Report the defect to the landlord in writing and keep copies (notice)
Document defects with photos and dates (evidence)
Set a reasonable deadline for repair and notify the landlord (calendar)
If repair does not occur, seek advice and, if needed, escalate to authorities (call)

Key takeaways

Report and document immediately when a safety defect is found.
Keep all messages and receipts for any repair requests.
Act fast if the situation threatens health or property.