The Danish Lease Agreement – [FREE PDF DOWNLOAD]

The Critical Importance of Clause 11

When reviewing a Danish lease agreement, pay special attention to Clause 11 (“Særlige vilkår”). This section contains the landlord’s special terms and conditions, which vary significantly between contracts. Landlords often include important stipulations here that may affect your rights.

Key Elements to Verify in Clause 11:

1. Lease Duration
   • Check whether your lease is unlimited (tidsubegrænset) or limited (tidsbestemt)
   • With unlimited leases, landlords cannot terminate unless you breach the agreement
   • Limited leases end on a specific date, often without option for extension unless renegotiated
2. The Diplomatic Clause
   • This crucial provision allows international tenants to terminate early if:
     • Your employment situation changes significantly
     • You’re relocated by your employer
     • You experience major life changes (divorce, death of spouse)
   • Standard diplomatic clause wording: “The tenant may terminate the lease with 3 months’ written notice if employment or personal circumstances change significantly due to workplace changes, employment termination, divorce or death, provided these circumstances were unknown when signing the lease.”
   • Important: This clause is not automatically included—request it before signing, if you can!

Move-In Procedures: Protecting Your Deposit

The move-in process is critical for protecting your deposit when you eventually leave:

1. Attend the Move-In Inspection
   • Never skip this crucial step
   • Bring someone with housing experience if possible
2. Document Everything
   • Take dated photographs of every room, including:
     • All walls, floors, and ceilings
     • Appliances (inside and out)
     • Windows and doors
     • Pre-existing damage or wear
   • Store photos securely in cloud storage
3. Review the Move-In Report Carefully
   • Note all existing issues, no matter how minor
   • Don’t sign until you’re satisfied with its accuracy
   • Remember: You have 14 days after signing to report additional issues

Move-Out Requirements and Deposit Returns

Understanding your obligations at lease end helps protect your deposit:

• Most leases require vacating 14 days before the official end date
• Landlords must provide documentation (invoices, receipts) for any deductions
• Typical deposit return timeline: Approximately one month after move-out
• Important distinction:
  • For newly renovated properties, expect significant charges for restoration
  • For properties rented “as seen” (som beset), landlords cannot charge for normal wear and tear or upgrading to better condition than at move-in

Financial Considerations for Danish Rentals

Be prepared for typical upfront costs:

• Security deposit: Usually three months’ rent
• Prepaid rent: Often one to three months
• First month’s rent
• Total upfront cost: Typically 4-7 months’ rent before moving in

Insurance Requirements

Most Danish leases require tenants to maintain:

• Household insurance (indboforsikring)
• Liability coverage
• Consider additional coverage for valuable items

Common Pitfalls for International Tenants

Language Barriers

• Request English translations of all important documents
• Have a Danish-speaking friend review the original version
• Understand that the Danish version is legally binding

Utility Registration

• Register for utilities immediately after signing (electricity, heating, water)
• Keep confirmation emails and account numbers

Maintenance Responsibilities

• Clarify who handles minor repairs
• Understand your obligations regarding:
  • Painting
  • Cleaning
  • Garden maintenance
  • Common area responsibilities

Rent Increases

• Check how and when rent can be increased
• Know the legal limits on rent increases
• Understand your right to appeal excessive increases

Red Flags in Danish Lease Agreements

Be cautious if you encounter:

• Requests for cash payments
• Pressure to sign immediately
• Refusal to provide a written contract
• Resistance to including the diplomatic clause
• Unusually high deposits (beyond 3 months)
• Restrictions that seem discriminatory or unusual

Important: Ensure Your Lease is Official
If your lease agreement isn’t an official one, proceed with caution. An official Danish lease agreement ensures your rights as a tenant are protected.

Getting Professional Help

Consider having your lease agreement reviewed by experts, especially if:

• You’re unfamiliar with Danish rental laws
• The contract contains complex terms
• You’re committing to a long-term or high-value lease

At Copenhagen Expats, we’ve handled over 300 lease agreements and can help you avoid costly mistakes. Contact us for a personal quote.

Don’t risk your deposit or peace of mind. Understanding your Danish lease agreement is essential for a successful relocation. For more expert advice on living in Denmark, visit copenhagenexpats.com.