Tenant Rights: Heating & Hot Water in Finland

If heating or hot water does not work in a rental apartment in Finland, a tenant should act quickly and systematically. Notify the landlord of the fault in writing and request a written repair schedule; keep messages, receipts and photos as documentation. Describe the fault clearly, note dates and times and any effects on living conditions. Ask the landlord for a reasonable deadline for repair; if no repair occurs, you can demand a rent reduction or arrange an urgent repair yourself and deduct the costs from the rent afterward. Generally the landlord is responsible for basic heating and domestic water; lack of habitability may entitle you to rent reduction or termination of the agreement under certain conditions. Remember to mention the extent of the symptoms, such as window fogging or low temperatures, as these details help assessment. Contact a tenants' organization, advice service or legal aid before taking final steps if needed.^[1]

What to do first

Start with clear, documented actions: report the fault in writing, describe the problem and request a repair schedule. Keep all information saved, as it will help in a possible dispute.

• Report the defect to the landlord in writing.
• Keep messages, photos and receipts as documentation.
• Request a written repair schedule and deadline.

How to make a repair request

Write a clear repair request stating the fault's impact on living conditions and propose a reasonable deadline for the repair. Deliver the request in writing and ask for acknowledgment or a written reply.

• Prepare a written repair request and attach photos and a description.
• Ask the landlord for a written response and timetable.
• If it is an urgent safety or health issue, note that clearly in the message.

If the problem is not resolved

If the landlord does not fix the defect within a reasonable time, you can demand a rent reduction, arrange the urgent repair yourself, or seek corrections and complaints with authorities. You can use the Consumer Disputes Board and, if necessary, take the matter to district court.^[3][2]

• Demand a written solution and rent reduction if necessary.
• Consider arranging an urgent repair yourself and deducting costs from the rent.
• Seek advice or take the case to an authority or court if needed.

FAQ

How quickly should I report the defect?

Report it immediately in writing and give the landlord a reasonable time for repair.

Can I reduce the rent if heating does not work?

If the quality of living deteriorates, you may demand a rent reduction or other compensation depending on the seriousness of the situation.

Which authorities can I contact?

You can seek advice from tenant advice services, the Consumer Disputes Board, or district court depending on the situation.^[3]

How-To

1. Report the defect to the landlord in writing immediately.
2. Document the fault with photos, dates and descriptions.
3. Request a written repair schedule and deadline.
4. If no repair occurs, seek advice and consider correction or complaint procedures.

Key takeaways

• Report the fault in writing immediately and document all actions.
• The landlord is responsible for basic heating and domestic water.
• Contact advisory services before legal action.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Finlex: Residential Leases Act (481/1995)
• [2] Oikeus.fi: Guidance and services
• [3] KKV: Consumer dispute resolution

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1. [1] Finlex: Asuinhuoneiston vuokrauksesta (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi: Ohjeet ja palvelut
3. [3] KKV: Kuluttajariitojen ratkaisu