Tenant Guide: Dispute a Rent Increase in Finland

You are a tenant in Finland and have received a notice of a rent increase. This article explains step by step how you can dispute the increase, what information and evidence to collect, and how to act within deadlines. You will get practical advice on drafting a correction request, assessing the fairness of the rent and possible appeal stages. The text uses clear language so you do not need legal training to act effectively on your own behalf. If you need further assistance, you will also find official contacts and links to guidance here.

What to do first

Quickly make a clear record: keep the lease agreement, recent payment receipts and the written notice of the increase. Note dates and conversations with the landlord and the landlord's reasons for the increase.

• Collect the lease agreement, payment receipts and the written notice of the increase.
• Take photos or copies of all relevant communication with the landlord.
• Check whether the increase is index-based or based on another agreement.

Correction request and appeal

Before legal action, send a written correction request to the landlord. Explain clearly why you consider the increase unreasonable or incorrect, attach evidence and propose an alternative or request further clarification. Mention references to applicable law if you know the provisions.

What to include in the correction

• Describe events chronologically and attach payment receipt copies.
• Refer to lease terms and any relevant legal provisions.^[1]
• Set a reasonable response time for the landlord, for example 14 days.

What to do if correction is ignored

If the landlord does not respond or the increase remains, the next step may be to take the matter to district court. Before that, seek advice and assessments from consumer advice services or legal aid. Legal procedures require careful documentation and possibly lawyer assistance. If you pursue litigation, ensure you follow legal deadlines and requirements.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I dispute a rent increase without a lawyer?

Yes. Many tenants start with a correction request themselves. Written documentation and clear reasoning help, but seek legal advice in serious disputes.^[2]

What evidence do I need?

Keep the lease agreement, payment receipts, notices of increase and all communication with the landlord. Comparisons of market rents or condition may also be useful.^[1]

Where can I appeal if I do not get help?

You can take the matter to district court or seek advice from consumer guidance and the competition and consumer authority depending on the dispute.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect all evidence: agreement, receipts and letters.
2. Send a written correction request to the landlord and ask for a reply within a set time.
3. If no correction is made, request a written response and assess next steps.
4. If the matter goes to court, prepare the application and attachments for the district court.
5. Monitor any enforcement actions and seek further support if needed.

Help and Support

• [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• [2] Oikeus.fi: Guidance and court contacts
• [3] KKV: Consumer guidance

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