Tenant Safety at Home in Finland

A safe home is an important part of a tenant's daily life in Finland. This guide reviews practical actions: how to prevent fire hazards, recognize and respond to carbon monoxide (CO) or gas leaks, and how to notify the landlord or authorities about problems. The guide explains tenant rights and obligations clearly and offers concrete steps for emergencies and repair requests. We also examine the importance of documentation and when to seek help from official bodies. This text is intended for tenants who want to understand safety requirements and act correctly in their rental home in Finland.

Fire safety and smoke detectors

Check that smoke detectors are working and replace their batteries regularly. In a tenancy, tenants often maintain batteries and basic upkeep, but fixed installations and larger safety measures may fall to the landlord; check the lease and legislation if needed^[1].

Carbon monoxide (CO) and gas detections

Carbon monoxide is odorless and dangerous. If you have a headache, dizziness or nausea and suspect CO exposure, go outside immediately and call the emergency number. If you detect a gas leak, avoid open flames and close main valves if it is safe to do so; notify the landlord and, if necessary, the rescue services or gas company^[2].

How to act when you detect a danger

1. Leave the hazardous area immediately and ensure other residents are aware of the danger.
2. Call emergency number 112 if the situation threatens life.
3. Inform the landlord in writing as soon as possible and keep a copy of the message.
4. If the danger relates to equipment or structure, request repairs and document the situation with photos and dates.
5. If repairs are not done within a reasonable time, consider negotiating with official authorities or seeking legal help.

FAQ

Who is responsible for smoke detectors in a residential unit?

Responsibilities may vary by agreement; tenants often take care of batteries and basic upkeep, while fixed installations and larger repairs usually fall to the landlord. Check the law on Finlex if necessary.^[1]

What should I do if I smell gas?

Leave the dwelling, avoid open flames, close the main valve if possible, call emergency services or the gas company, and inform the landlord.^[2]

Can I withhold rent if the landlord does not fix a dangerous defect?

Withholding rent and rent reductions have rules; negotiate first and seek guidance from authorities or courts before taking action.^[3]

How-To

1. Assess the hazard immediately and move to a safe place.
2. Call 112 in emergencies or the local gas emergency number if it is a gas issue.
3. Notify the landlord in writing (email or text) and request a written response.
4. Save evidence: photos, messages and dates.
5. Contact authorities or consumer advice if you do not receive repairs or assistance.

Help and Support

• Finlex – legislation and Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• KKV – Consumer and competition authority, guidance for tenancy matters
• Oikeus.fi – court services and guidance for disputes

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] KKV: Consumer and Competition Authority
3. [3] Oikeus.fi: court and guidance services