Tenant Complaint Guide in Finland
Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb stays, often raise questions about tenant rights related to property condition, payments and tenancy information. This article guides tenants in Finland on how to file a complaint correctly: how to document issues, what demands to present to the landlord and which official bodies to contact if negotiation does not resolve the matter. The text covers practical steps for making a complaint, deadlines and required evidence, and gives instructions for contacting authorities and possible legal actions. We also address repair requests, rent reductions and situations where living conditions are unsafe or unhealthy. The reader receives concrete examples of how to phrase notifications, organize evidence and when to turn to the Consumer Disputes Board, KKV or the courts.
How to complain about a short-term rental
Tenants in Finland have rights regarding the condition and safety of their accommodation, and the Act on Residential Leases defines the basic principles of tenancy.[1] If the landlord does not respond or disputes responsibility, the matter can first be brought to the Consumer Disputes Board or KKV[3] and, if necessary, pursued in district court.[2]
How to prepare your complaint
- Check the lease terms and notification requirements.
- Collect photos, messages and receipts as evidence.
- Record dates of events and any deadlines.
- Keep payment receipts and any repair invoices.
What to ask from the landlord
- Repair or remediation within a reasonable time.
- Rent reduction or compensation if the living conditions are significantly degraded.
- Termination or modification of the agreement in exceptional situations.
FAQ
- When should I file a complaint?
- When the accommodation does not match the contract, poses health or safety risks, or the landlord does not fix the defect within a reasonable time.
- What evidence do I need?
- Photos, messages, receipts, any measurement reports and dated notes of events.
- Which authorities can I contact?
- First the landlord; if the matter is not resolved, you can bring it to the Consumer Disputes Board or contact KKV, and if necessary seek resolution in district court.
How-To
- Record the issue and gather evidence such as photos and messages.
- Send a written complaint to the landlord and request a response time.
- If there is no reply or the reply is insufficient, contact the Consumer Disputes Board or KKV for mediation and guidance.[3]
- As a last resort, seek legal resolution in district court; be mindful of deadlines and evidence.
Key takeaways
- Document issues carefully and keep evidence.
- Always inform the landlord in writing about problems.
- Seek help from authorities and dispute bodies before legal action.
Help and support
- Finlex: Act on Residential Leases and materials
- Oikeus.fi: Court services and guidance
- KKV: Consumer and competition guidance
