Subletting in Finland: Tenant Rights

Subletting is a common solution when a tenant needs help with housing costs or temporary arrangements. In Finland, tenants generally must ask the landlord for consent before subletting unless the lease says otherwise. Your rights cover both the consent requirements and basic housing standards, such as requesting repairs and preserving reasonable privacy. This guide explains clearly how to request consent, what conditions a landlord may set, what to do if consent is denied or if problems arise with rent increases or repairs, and how to document the situation and where to seek help in Finland.

What the law says

Under the Act on Residential Leases, a tenant generally needs written consent before subletting ^[1]. A landlord may set reasonable conditions but may not unreasonably prevent subletting.

When consent is required

• When the lease includes a consent requirement.
• When subletting changes the nature or duration of occupancy.
• When the primary residence is given to another person.

How to ask for consent

Write a clear request with the subletting period, subtenant details and contact information. Include proposed terms and ask for a timely reply. Keep all messages and evidence.

Resolving disputes

Try negotiating with the landlord first. If needed, seek advice from consumer authorities such as the Consumer Agency or KKV ^[2]. For legal actions and forms, see guidance at oikeus.fi ^[3].

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need the landlord's consent to sublet?

In most cases consent is required if the lease says so or if subletting changes the nature of occupancy.

Can the landlord refuse consent?

The landlord can refuse for a justified reason; an unreasonable refusal is generally not valid.

What if a subtenant breaches the agreement?

Document breaches, inform the landlord and contact authorities or seek legal help if necessary.

How-To

1. Check your lease and note any consent requirements.
2. Send a written request to the landlord and ask for a reply within a set time.
3. Save photos, messages and receipts as evidence.
4. Contact authorities or seek legal assistance if needed.

Key takeaways

• Always request consent in writing and keep evidence.
• Keep documents and messages organized for disputes.
• Observe deadlines and respond to notices promptly.

Help and support

• Read the law: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• KKV: Consumer Authority guidance
• Oikeus.fi: guidance and forms

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