Tenant Guide: Budget and Debt Advice in Finland

For tenants, tightening finances or repair needs can feel overwhelming. This guide helps a tenant in Finland understand budgeting, debt counseling, and basic maintenance responsibilities in a clear and practical way. You will get instructions on how to make a written repair request, where to seek debt counseling, and when a matter may proceed to the Consumer Disputes Board or court. The guide also advises on documentation, meeting deadlines, and arranging rent payments so you can protect your rights and avoid unnecessary legal action. Practical steps help you make considered decisions and seek help in time.

Mitä tehdä ensin

Check your lease and note key points: rent amount, payment dates, security deposit, and maintenance responsibilities. If there is a defect in the dwelling, notify the landlord immediately and request a written response. Written contact helps later to prove you reported the issue properly.

Budjetointi ja velkaneuvonta

Create a monthly budget separating rent, electricity, water and essential expenses. If you are accumulating debts, seek debt counseling early: municipalities and organizations offer free advice to help negotiate repayments and draft a realistic financial plan.

Mitä talouden järjestely voi sisältää

• Negotiating payment schedules or reductions to cover rent or other debts.
• Contact debt counseling or municipal social services for personal support and benefit checks.
• Prioritize essential expenses and look for possible savings in daily life.

Kunnossapito ja korjausvelvollisuudet

The landlord generally has the responsibility to keep the dwelling habitable, but the tenant must report defects and allow a reasonable time for repair. If the landlord does not fix a reported defect, you can make a written repair request and, if necessary, seek help from authorities or legal action.^[1]

Dokumentoi ja seuraa

Take photos, record messages and keep receipts for any expenses related to repairs or temporary housing. Good documentation strengthens your case if it progresses to a dispute.

Kun neuvottelu ei riitä

If negotiation does not resolve the issue, you can take the dispute to the Consumer Disputes Board or ultimately to court. Before litigation it is advisable to try settlement solutions and use official guidance and forms from the justice system.^[2]

Usein kysytyt kysymykset

Can rent be reduced if the dwelling is uninhabitable?

Rent reduction may be possible if the dwelling is partially or wholly uninhabitable and the landlord does not fix the defect. Each case is assessed individually.

Where can I find free debt counseling?

Municipalities and many third sector organizations offer free debt counseling and guidance on organizing finances.

Who do I contact if the landlord threatens eviction without a legal decision?

Contact the local legal aid office or consult the justice service instructions and, if necessary, report to authorities.

Toimi näin

1. Contact debt counseling or municipal social services and describe your financial situation.
2. Collect evidence: photos, messages with the landlord and receipts.
3. Send a written repair request to the landlord and ask for a response within a deadline.
4. If the matter is unresolved, consider taking a complaint to the Consumer Disputes Board or court.
5. Create a budget and negotiate a payment plan for rent and other debts.

Apua ja tuki

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• Oikeus.fi: Guidance and forms for court procedures
• KKV.fi: Consumer disputes and advisory services

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi: Guidance and forms for court procedures
3. [3] KKV.fi: Consumer disputes and advisory services