Tenant Guide: Landlord Maintenance Duty in Finland

Many tenants in Finland sometimes face situations where repair needs raise questions about responsibility. This article guides step by step how to identify the landlord's maintenance duty, how to request repairs, what to document and which authorities to contact if the matter is not resolved. I explain common rights and obligations in plain language, including timelines, notification duties and possible compensation claims. You will also get concrete action instructions for filing a complaint and taking the matter forward, for example to the Consumer Disputes Board or the district court. The text is especially suitable for tenants who want to ensure safe living conditions and have repairs done quickly.

Who is responsible for maintenance?

The landlord generally has the responsibility for the maintenance of the dwelling and keeping it habitable in Finland ^[1]. This means that the landlord must take care of structures, plumbing, heating and other basics that affect living. The tenant's task is to notify defects in a reasonable manner and give the landlord an opportunity to repair them.

How to request a repair — step by step

1. Notify the landlord in writing and keep a copy.
2. Take photos or make notes of the defects and the time.
3. Determine whether it is an urgent repair (e.g. water leak, electrical fault).
4. Monitor the landlord's response time and send a reminder if needed.
5. If the repair is not done, consider having it done yourself and claiming costs back or asking for a rent reduction.

When repair is delayed or refused

If the landlord does not repair within a reasonable time, first send a written reminder and mention possible next steps, such as having the repair done yourself or requesting a rent reduction. If necessary, you can seek help from authorities or bring the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board or the district court ^[2][3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for the repair if the damage is the tenant's fault?

If the damage is due to the tenant's negligence, the repair costs may be payable by the tenant, but situations are assessed case by case.

Can I reduce the rent if the dwelling is not habitable?

If the dwelling is partially uninhabitable, the tenant can request a rent reduction or compensation, but negotiation and possibly legal guidance are recommended first.

How quickly must the landlord react to an urgent repair?

In urgent cases such as water damage or electrical faults, a prompt reaction is expected; exact timeframes depend on the situation and reasonableness.

How-To

1. Write a clear complaint describing the defect and attach photos.
2. Send the complaint to the landlord in writing and keep a copy or email reply.
3. Wait a reasonable time for the repair and send a reminder if necessary.
4. If the repair does not happen, contact authorities or seek resolution through the Consumer Disputes Board.

Help and Support

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• Oikeus.fi: Guidance and court services
• KKV: Consumer guidance and information

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