Rent Arrears and Eviction in Finland

What to do first

If you are a tenant in Finland and have received a threat of eviction due to rent arrears, act quickly but methodically. First contact the landlord in writing, clarify the total debt and propose a payment arrangement or partial payment in writing. Collect all payment receipts, the lease agreement and messages with the landlord, as they serve as evidence in a possible dispute. Remember that tenancy in Finland is regulated by law, which affects deadlines and procedures.^[1]

Primary actions

• Contact the landlord immediately in writing or by phone and propose a payment plan or clarify the debt amount.
• Check the debt amount and request a detailed breakdown to understand the charges.
• Gather evidence: receipts, lease agreement and communications.
• Respond to official notices within deadlines and avoid delays in replying.

If the landlord has given a written notice or terminates the agreement for non-payment, note the deadlines and grounds stated. Often there are warning and termination procedures to follow, and you may have the opportunity to remedy the debt before final eviction.^[1]

Negotiation and support

If you cannot pay the full amount at once, propose a realistic payment plan and request written confirmation. Contact social services or debt counseling if your finances prevent payment; they can help apply for support or restructuring. If the case becomes a dispute, seek advice from legal aid services or consumer authorities and the Consumer Disputes Board.

Legal process and deadlines

If the landlord takes the matter to court, you will usually receive a summons with deadlines to respond. The district court handles lease terminations and if the decision favors the landlord, the next step can be enforcement. Enforcement is handled by authorities and may lead to changes in housing arrangements.^[2]

Evidence and documentation

Good documentation can resolve the case or reduce harm. Keep records of payments, communications with the landlord and all correspondence. Take photographs of the property condition if rent reduction or repair obligations are disputed.

Help and support

• Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
• Oikeus.fi: Guidance on court procedures and district courts
• Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV): Consumer advice

Frequently asked questions

Can a landlord evict immediately if I do not pay rent?

Usually the landlord must follow warning and termination procedures before eviction, and the tenant often has an opportunity to pay the debt within a deadline.^[1]

What should I do if I receive a summons from the district court?

Read the summons carefully, respond within the deadline and seek legal help or legal aid if needed.^[2]

Can I arrange a payment plan afterwards?

Yes, discuss with the landlord in writing and request confirmation of the agreed payment schedule; social services may offer assistance.

How to

1. Contact the landlord immediately and propose a payment plan or clarify the debt amount.
2. Collect all evidence: receipts, lease and messages.
3. Seek help from social services or debt counseling if needed.
4. Respond to official notices within the deadline.
5. If you receive a summons, obtain legal advice or legal aid.
6. Keep documentation organized and act calmly at each step.

1. [1] Finlex: Act on Residential Leases (481/1995)
2. [2] Oikeus.fi: Guidance on court procedures and district courts
3. [3] Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV): Consumer advice