Tenant Repairs and Maintenance in Finland

As a tenant, it is important to know your responsibilities and rights regarding apartment maintenance and repairs in Finland. This guide explains who is responsible for small repairs and who handles larger upkeep, how to report defects to the landlord, and which documents and timelines you should keep in mind. If the apartment is uninhabitable or a repair is needed for safety reasons, the guide advises how to request repair work, seek rent reduction, or, if necessary, take the matter to an authority or court. We also explain what to do if the landlord neglects their duties and when you may arrange repairs yourself. It includes practical instructions on making notifications, collecting required documentation, and ways to pursue repairs through authorities. Read also how to preserve evidence and claim compensation.

Who is responsible for repairs?

Generally, the landlord is responsible for major repairs and maintaining habitability. The tenant often handles small day-to-day fixes unless agreed otherwise in the lease. These matters are governed by housing and lease laws and relevant regulations.^[1]

Typical responsibilities

• Minor maintenance and everyday repairs (repair) are often the tenant's responsibility.
• Major structural repairs and faults in heating, electrical or plumbing systems (repair) are usually the landlord's responsibility.
• Always agree responsibilities in writing and keep messages and receipts (record).

Reporting and documentation

Report defects in writing or by email with a clear description. Note dates and attach photos or videos of the problem. Written notification serves as evidence if the dispute escalates.^[1]

If the defect creates a serious safety or habitability issue, report it immediately and request prompt repair.

When the landlord does not act

If the landlord fails to fix an urgent defect within a reasonable time, you may arrange the repair and seek reimbursement, request a rent reduction, or bring the matter to an authority or court. Before legal action, always try to resolve the issue through negotiation or mediation. If needed, seek consumer advice or bring the dispute to court.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for a repair if there is moisture damage in the floor?

If the moisture damage is caused by the tenant's actions or neglect, the tenant may be responsible; however, structural moisture damage generally falls to the landlord.

How quickly must the landlord fix a dangerous defect?

Dangerous defects must be repaired without delay within a reasonable time; what is reasonable depends on the nature of the defect and the circumstances.

Can I withhold rent if a repair is not made?

Withholding rent is exceptional and risky; first document the defect, notify in writing, and seek advice before withholding rent or taking legal action.^[3]

How-To

1. Notify the landlord in writing and request a repair schedule (notice).
2. Collect evidence: photos, messages, and invoices (record).
3. Set a reasonable deadline for the repair and monitor response times (time).
4. Seek advice if needed or take the matter to an authority or court (contact).

Key takeaways

• Keep all messages, photos, and receipts organized as evidence.
• Act quickly on safety-related defects to protect your rights.

Help and Support

• [1] Finlex: Legislation and up-to-date statutes
• [2] KKV: Consumer advice
• [3] Oikeus.fi: Legal aid and court services

1. [1] Finlex: Lainsäädäntö ja ajantasaiset säädökset
2. [2] Kilpailu- ja kuluttajavirasto: Kuluttajaneuvonta
3. [3] Oikeus.fi: Oikeusapu ja oikeudelliset palvelut