Tenant Move-Out Inspection in Finland

When you move out of a rented apartment in Finland, the right documents and good documentation make the move-out inspection easier and protect the tenant's rights. Gather usage and condition notes for departure, photos, the tenancy agreement, receipts for repairs and any security deposit documents. Keep records of contacts with the landlord, payment receipts and request a written inspection report. Also note electricity and water meter readings and return keys as agreed. If there are disagreements about return or repair responsibility, documentation and official guidance help in negotiations or disputes. Many issues are resolved by discussion, but if necessary you can seek help from the Consumer Disputes Board or the District Court. This article explains which papers are needed and how to act in Finland.

Which documents to bring

• The tenancy agreement and attachments that prove the lease duration and terms.
• Photos of the apartment condition at move-out, clear images of every room and any damage.
• Receipts and documents for repairs performed, and maintenance requests with responses.
• Security deposit receipts and bank details for refund transfer.
• Electricity and water meter readings and the final cleaning receipt if cleaning was agreed.

Inspection process

Typically the landlord or property manager arranges the inspection time with you. During the inspection, the apartment condition is reviewed item by item and possible deficiencies are recorded. Always ask for a written inspection report or acknowledgement of findings. If the landlord requests repairs, clarify who is responsible for costs and document the need for work with photos and written details. Respond to written notices within deadlines.

What to do in case of disputes

If you cannot agree on the return of the security deposit or repair responsibility, first try to negotiate and present documentation. Additional information about the law is available on Finlex ^[1], court procedure guidance on Oikeus.fi ^[2] and consumer issues at KKV ^[3]. The Consumer Disputes Board can give recommendations in consumer disputes, and if necessary the matter can proceed to the District Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the landlord demands repairs I did not cause?

Collect photos and receipts, send a written reply to the landlord and request an inspection report. If disagreement continues, seek advice from the Consumer Disputes Board or court.

How quickly must the security deposit be returned?

The return period may be stated in the tenancy agreement; however, unreasonable delays are not allowed by law, so request a written explanation for any delay.

Can the landlord inspect the apartment without prior notice?

Generally the landlord should agree on an inspection time or give reasonable prior notice, except in emergencies.

How-To

1. Notify the landlord of your move-out date and agree on an inspection time in writing.
2. Prepare documents, take photos and gather receipts and the tenancy agreement.
3. Agree on the exact inspection time and ensure both parties can attend.
4. Take notes during the inspection and request a written report or signature on findings.
5. Return keys as agreed and request a written breakdown when asking for the security deposit refund.

Help and Support

• [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• [2] Oikeus.fi: Court and legal guidance
• [3] KKV: Consumer guidance

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