Tenant's Guide: Avoiding Clawbacks in Finland

Many tenants in Finland worry about repairs and maintenance, especially when repair requests, rent withholdings or defects can lead to clawback claims. This guide calmly explains how a tenant can protect their rights: how to document defects and repair requests, what the lease agreement means, when to negotiate with the landlord and when to seek help from authorities or the courts. The text explains practical steps, timelines and actions in plain language so you can prevent clawbacks and avoid extra costs. The instructions are based on Finnish legislation and official guidance, and they also apply to situations where rent increases or poor habitability occur.

What does a clawback mean

A clawback means the landlord demands payments afterwards, for example for repairs or withheld rent. Tenancy relationships and obligations are regulated by law and agreements, so it is important to know when a claim is lawful and when it can be disputed ^[1].

How to avoid a clawback

Prevention is often the most effective way to avoid clawback claims. Follow the practical measures below and document every step carefully.

• Notify repair needs in writing and on time (submit).
• Take photos, make notes and keep receipts and messages (evidence).
• Request a written estimate of the scope and costs of repairs (repair).
• Negotiate in writing with the landlord and save agreed terms (call).
• Use rent withholding only according to law and record timings (time).

What to do if a landlord demands repayment

If you receive a claim, respond in writing and ask for a detailed breakdown of the basis for the claim. Keep your response and all related communication. If the claim basis is unclear, ask for more information and, if needed, estimates for repairs ^[2].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord charge repairs afterwards?

A landlord can demand repair costs if the tenant has neglected obligations or caused damage, but the claim must be assessed case by case and proven.

What documents should I collect?

Save photos, dates, written repair requests, receipts and messages; these serve as evidence in any dispute.

Where can I get help in a dispute?

Before litigation, try negotiation and mediation; if necessary, the issue can be brought to a consumer disputes board or district court ^[3].

How to act

1. Document the defect immediately with photos and dates (evidence).
2. Notify the landlord in writing and request confirmation of receipt (submit).
3. Obtain written cost or repair estimates if necessary (repair).
4. Keep receipts and document payments or possible deductions (payment).
5. Set and document deadlines for repairs and responses (14 days).
6. If no agreement is reached, file a written complaint and, if needed, take the case to court (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• Finlex — Residential lease law and statutes
• Oikeus.fi — Court guidance and forms
• KKV.fi — Consumer guidance and dispute assistance

1. [1] Finlex — Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi — Court guidance and forms
3. [3] KKV.fi — Consumer and market guidance