Tenant mistakes: leaks and mold in Finland

As a tenant, dealing with leaks and mold can feel urgent and confusing. This article explains clearly the common mistakes tenants make in Finland when they notice leaks and mold, how the landlord's maintenance obligations apply, and what documentation you should collect. I also explain when to request repairs in writing, how to negotiate a rent reduction or change, and which authorities to contact if needed. The advice is written in practical language without complex legal terms so you can handle the matter yourself or prepare for formal dispute proceedings if necessary.

Common mistakes

• Delaying notification to the landlord (within days) instead of reporting immediately and preserving records.
• Requesting repairs verbally without written notice or documentation (notice), which makes proving the case harder.
• Failing to collect evidence such as photos, videos or receipts (evidence), weakening any claims in disputes.
• Paying full rent without discussing a rent reduction in situations where habitability is impaired (rent).
• Starting major repairs or removing structures without permission, which can create liability issues (safety).

What to do immediately

Act quickly: notify the landlord of the defect in writing and request repairs by letter or email. Describe the problem, when it started and ask for an estimated repair schedule. The landlord's maintenance obligations follow the rental laws and specific duties are set out in legislation.^[1]

• Send written notice immediately and ask for confirmation of receipt (notice).
• Collect evidence: photos, videos, dated notes and any professional measurement results (evidence).
• Request a repair plan and timetable from the landlord and agree on access to the apartment for repairs (repair).
• Set a reasonable deadline for repairs and remind in writing if necessary so the matter progresses (within days).

Repair responsibilities and rent reduction

The landlord is responsible for maintaining the apartment and ensuring it is fit for habitation. If repairs are not made within a reasonable time, the tenant may be entitled to have repairs done or to seek a rent reduction depending on the severity.^[1] Before claiming a rent reduction, always notify in writing and if needed obtain assessments such as moisture measurements or a medical statement if health effects occur.

Frequently asked questions

Who is responsible for repairing a leak or mold?

Generally the landlord is responsible for maintaining and repairing the apartment unless the lease agreement specifies otherwise.^[1]

What evidence should I collect?

Collect photos, videos, timestamps, messages to the landlord and any professional measurement or report results.

Can I get a rent reduction for mold or moisture problems?

Yes, if habitability is significantly impaired. Always start with a written notice and try to agree with the landlord; if necessary, the matter can be taken to authorities or court.^[2]

How to proceed

1. Notify the landlord in writing and request confirmation of receipt.
2. Save evidence: photos, videos, measurement results and message history.
3. Request a repair plan and a reasonable schedule for the works.
4. If repairs are not done, consider rent reduction or next legal steps and relevant timelines.

Help and Support / Resources

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

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