Tenant Guide: Energy and Heating in Finland

Complex deadlines related to energy, heating and indoor air issues can worry a tenant. This guide clearly explains what deadlines mean in Finland, how to report defects and how to proceed with repair requests or disputes. You will receive practical guidance on lease obligations, repair responsibilities and housing safety, as well as tips on documenting and contacting the landlord. The guide covers common schedules such as how quickly repair requests should be made and what to do if heating or water is missing. It also explains when to seek help from authorities or legal assistance and how to prepare for a possible dispute. The legislation is based on the Act on Residential Leases.^[1] The guide also includes information on rent reductions, temporary repairs and contact details for authorities such as the Consumer Authority and the courts.^[3]

What do deadlines mean?

Deadlines indicate how quickly a tenant or landlord must act, for example in fault notifications, repair requests or other housing-related matters. In Finland these deadlines are based on lease law and contract terms, but in practice it is advisable to act quickly and in writing to preserve rights.^[1]

Important deadlines

• Report an acute fault to the landlord as soon as possible (days).
• Send a written complaint if a repair is delayed, typically within 14 days (days).
• Request a rent reduction immediately if the nuisance persists beyond a reasonable time (time).

Repair requests and maintenance

When you notice a heating, water or indoor air problem, make a written repair request and attach photos or other evidence. Recording helps track schedules and in possible disputes.

• Send a repair request describing the fault and its impact on living conditions (repair).
• Save evidence such as photos and message threads (evidence).
• Ask for confirmation of receipt and a timeline in writing (notice).

If repairs are not made

If the landlord does not fix the situation within a reasonable time, you can arrange repairs yourself or demand a rent reduction. Options include negotiation, the Consumer Disputes Board or taking the matter to court.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly must I report a fault to the landlord?

Report the fault immediately and make a written notification as soon as possible; this facilitates handling and documentation of the repair request.

Can I demand a rent reduction if heating is missing?

Yes, a rent reduction may be warranted if living conditions or safety are impaired and the situation is not remedied within a reasonable time.

Where can I turn if the landlord does not help?

You can seek assistance through negotiation, the Consumer Disputes Board or take the matter to court depending on the situation and your claims.[2]

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, a diary and messages (evidence).
2. Send a written notification to the landlord and request a written reply (notice).
3. Monitor the repair timeline and remind again if necessary (repair).
4. If the issue is not resolved, consider filing a complaint or legal action (court).

Help and Support

• Finlex: Legislation and regulations
• Oikeus.fi: Courts and procedural guidance
• KKV: Consumer guidance and dispute assistance

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi: Courts and procedural guidance
3. [3] KKV: Consumer guidance and dispute assistance