Tenant rights: internet, TV and parking fees in Finland

Many tenants in Finland wonder whether a landlord can demand a separate payment for internet, TV or a parking space. In this guide I explain tenants' rights and landlords' options using the Act on Residential Leases and provide practical advice for disputes. I describe when an additional fee is covered by the agreement, when it may be unlawful and what actions a tenant can take, such as a written request, collecting evidence and contacting advisory services. The guide also includes instructions for filing a complaint and a short FAQ answering common questions about living and rental relationships in Finland. You will also read how to collect evidence, when to request a lease amendment and which authorities to contact if no settlement is reached. The text is intended for tenants who want to understand their rights and ensure that charges are lawful in Finland.

When can a landlord charge extra fees?

A landlord can charge additional fees only if they are based on the lease agreement or a statutory right. The Act on Residential Leases lays out the basic principles and restrictions.^[1] In practice, legality depends on whether the fee is agreed in writing, whether it concerns basic housing services and whether the fee is reasonable relative to the service.

Common situations

• Internet and broadband fee (fee) — may be a separately agreed service, not an automatic part of the rent.
• TV or cable fee (fee) — requires agreement or a shared arrangement in the housing company.
• Parking space or parking fee (fee) — often a separate service with its own agreement.
• Repairs and maintenance (repair) — the landlord is responsible for maintaining the dwelling, not collecting extra charges from the tenant for repairs.
• Contract terms and information (notice) — written agreements clarify obligations and rights.

How to act if the landlord demands a fee

1. Contact the landlord first and request an explanation for the demanded fee (contact).
2. Check the lease agreement in writing to see if the fee is agreed (notice).
3. Collect evidence such as messages, receipts and contract attachments (evidence).
4. If you cannot reach agreement, consider bringing the dispute to the Consumer Disputes Board or district court (court).
5. Seek legal advice or tenant counselling if necessary (contact).

FAQ

Can a landlord charge for internet?

If internet service is agreed in the lease or the landlord provides it as a separate service, a fee may be allowed; without agreement a compulsory demand may be questionable.^[1]

Can a parking fee be part of the rent?

A parking space can be agreed as part of the rental relationship, but usually the parking fee is a separate service and should be based on an agreement.

Who should I contact if a dispute cannot be resolved?

Primarily the Consumer Disputes Board and, if necessary, the district court are authorities to turn to in dispute situations in Finland.^[2]

How-To

1. Send a written request to the landlord asking for grounds and contract references (notice).
2. Save all messages and payment receipts as evidence (evidence).
3. Seek impartial advice from a tenant association or consumer advisor (contact).
4. Bring the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board or seek legal assistance if no settlement is reached (court).

Key takeaways

• A written agreement is decisive when assessing the legality of extra fees.
• Always collect and keep evidence if you dispute a charge.

Help and Support / Resources

• Finlex
• Oikeus.fi
• KKV (Consumer Advice)

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