Tenant Guide: Short-Term Renting in Finland

Short-term renting has become more common in Finland, and many tenants have questions about their rights, lease terms and safety. This guide is intended for tenants and hosts who want to understand what to consider in short-term renting: how to prepare a lease, what obligations the parties have, how to handle possible damages and repairs, and what tax and notification duties may apply. The instructions also clarify how to act in disputes, which authorities to contact and which pieces of evidence to keep. The guide uses clear language and practical steps so that a tenant can make informed decisions in Finland.

What short-term renting means

In short-term renting, a dwelling is usually rented for less than a month or for a few days at a time. The most important matters between tenant and landlord are the lease terms, safety and liability for damages. Issues such as deposits, cleaning responsibilities and key handover should be agreed in writing.^[1]

Lease and tenant rights

• (deposit) Deposit and payments: how much is required, what it can be used for and when it is returned.
• (notice) Lease terms: duration, cancellation policies and house rules in writing.
• (repair) Repairs and maintenance: who is responsible for defects and how repair requests are handled.
• (entry) Privacy and entry: when the landlord may enter the residence and how notice is given.
• (evidence) Evidence: photos, messages and receipts confirm events in a dispute.

How to act in a problem situation

1. (evidence) Document damages and the condition of the property with photos and notes as soon as you notice them.
2. (notice) Notify the landlord in writing (email or messaging app) and request confirmation of receipt.
3. (call) First try to negotiate with the landlord and seek a mediated solution.
4. (court) If the issue is not resolved, investigate complaint options at consumer dispute bodies or pursue legal action in court.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord prohibit short-term renting?

Often the lease or housing company rules determine whether a dwelling may be rented short-term. Check the lease and discuss with the landlord; certain restrictions may apply by law.^[1]

What to do after a rental damage?

Document the damage, notify the landlord in writing and request repair or compensation. The deposit may cover damages if compensation cannot be obtained otherwise.

Where can I file a complaint if no agreement is reached?

In disputes, the consumer dispute board can help in consumer matters and, if necessary, the matter may be brought to district court; guidance on judicial procedures is available on oikeus.fi.^[3]

How-To

1. (notice) Read the lease carefully and check for restrictions and cancellation terms.
2. (evidence) Photograph the property and keep photos and other messages before and after the rental.
3. (notice) Immediately notify the landlord in writing if you discover damages or deficiencies.
4. (court) If unresolved, explore complaint options or contact legal aid and the court.^[2]

Help and Support

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• Oikeus.fi: Guidance on legal services and district courts
• KKV.fi: Consumer guidance and advice

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