Tenant mistakes in Finland: settlement and enforcement

As a tenant in Finland you may face settlement or enforcement situations where disputes about repairs, rent payments or return of keys escalate. This article explains the most common mistakes tenants make when seeking settlement and during legal enforcement, and provides practical advice on documentation, deadlines and contacting authorities. We cover how to gather evidence, how to send notifications correctly and when to seek help from bodies such as the Consumer Disputes Board or the District Court. The article is based on Finnish legislation and official guidance^[1] and gives step-by-step advice on how to avoid common mistakes and protect your rights.

What settlement and enforcement mean

Settlement means the parties resolve a dispute without court. Enforcement refers to situations where a decision or agreement is executed through legal means. Both settlement and enforcement have their own deadlines and formalities that are important to understand before acting.

Common tenant mistakes

• You do not document the defect or delay sufficiently, such as photos and dates.
• You fail to act or respond to notices within deadlines, weakening your rights.
• You attempt to fix serious structural issues yourself without permission or notice.
• You do not submit written notifications to the landlord or required forms.
• You do not determine when a matter requires court or enforcement via authorities.

Documentation and evidence

Keep a chronological log of events, retain messages and take clear photos of damage. Note dates and keep receipts for any interim expenses. Without evidence, resolving a dispute is difficult.^[2]

Notifications and deadlines

Always send repair or other claims in writing and keep a copy; document receipt. Finnish law has regulations about timing and formalities that should be followed carefully.^[1]

Consequences that often follow

• Delays in notifications that prevent compensation or repair claims.
• Insufficient evidence that reduces chances in court.
• Delaying contacting advice services or authorities when the situation escalates.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if the landlord does not fix a serious defect?

Notify the defect in writing, document it and request a repair schedule. If the problem continues, contact advice services or consider filing a complaint with authorities.

Can I reduce the rent if repairs are delayed?

Rent reduction may be justified, but act in writing and keep evidence; seek legal advice before making a deduction.

Who do I contact if I cannot reach a settlement?

You can use the Consumer Disputes Board services or seek a solution in District Court and proceed with enforcement as required by law.

How-To

1. Record and save the defect description, photos and dates immediately.
2. Send a written claim to the landlord, keep a copy and document receipt.
3. If unresolved, contact advice services or the Consumer Disputes Board and consider legal action.
4. If you obtain a judgement and the other party does not comply, ask the courts about enforcement procedures.

Key takeaways

• Document all defects and communications in detail.
• Observe deadlines and respond to official notices promptly.
• Seek advice early to avoid irreversible mistakes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases
• Oikeus.fi: Enforcement and court guidance
• KKV: Consumer Disputes Board information

1. [1] Finlex
2. [2] Oikeus.fi
3. [3] KKV