Tenant Rights: Insulation and Windows in Finland

As a tenant in Finland, it is important to understand what a landlord can decide about apartment insulation and window maintenance. This article explains in plain terms when a landlord may carry out changes, who is responsible for thermal insulation and broken windows, and how a tenant can request repairs or compensation. It also advises immediate steps for documenting issues and contacting authorities if the matter cannot be resolved through discussion. Sources are based on Finnish legislation and official guidance so you can act safely and protect your rights in the tenancy.

What can a landlord do regarding insulation and windows?

The landlord can generally care for the building's basic structure, but significant changes or works affecting living comfort should be agreed with the tenant. Landlord obligations for habitability and maintenance are based on housing legislation and contractual terms ^[1].

If insulation or windows cause living problems (cold, moisture, drafts), the tenant should notify the landlord in writing and request repairs within a reasonable time ^[1].

• Document the problem with photos and measurements.
• Notify the landlord in writing and request a repair schedule.
• Set a reasonable deadline for repairs and record the dates.
• Contact municipal building supervision or advisory services if there are health risks ^[2].

If the landlord does not fix a defect affecting habitability, the tenant may have the right to demand repairs via authorities, seek rent reduction or, if necessary, bring the matter to court ^[1]. Before legal action, use mediation and consumer disputes guidance if the matter is of a consumer nature ^[3].

How to act if a window or insulation is defective?

Act systematically: document, notify the landlord, set a reasonable repair timeframe and seek help from authorities if needed. If the apartment becomes uninhabitable, record the impact and discuss rent reduction options with the landlord.

Examples of actions

• Take photos and keep a diary of drafts, mold or temperature fluctuations.
• Send the landlord a clear written repair demand and ask for a timeline.
• If agreement cannot be reached, consider taking the case to court or relevant authorities.

Key takeaways

• The landlord usually bears responsibility for structural repairs.
• Document defects and communicate with the landlord in writing.
• Use official guidance and advisory services before pursuing legal steps.

FAQ

Can the landlord add insulation or replace windows without permission?

Major changes should be agreed, but the landlord may take care of basic structures; discuss and request written notice before works start [1].

Who fixes broken windows?

The landlord generally fixes structural defects unless the tenancy agreement states otherwise [1].

What to do if the landlord does not fix a habitability issue?

Record the problem, send a written repair demand and contact municipal building supervision or consumer advice before legal proceedings [2][3].

How-To

1. Document the defect with photos and dates.
2. Send a written repair demand to the landlord and request a response time.
3. Set a reasonable repair deadline and state subsequent actions if it is not met.
4. Contact municipal building supervision or consumer advice and follow their instructions [2][3].

Help and Support

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

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