Finding and securing a rental property in Denmark can be an exciting step in your expat journey, but it also comes with important responsibilities and procedures. This comprehensive checklist guides you through the critical steps from signing your Danish lease agreement to moving out, helping you protect your rights and deposit as a tenant in Denmark.
Before Moving In: Essential First Steps
Lease Agreement Review
✅ Review the entire Danish lease agreement thoroughly (pay special attention to Clause 11 with special conditions)
✅ Verify key terms in your lease:
- Rent increase schedule and percentage caps
- Pet policies and restrictions
- Fixed-term vs. unlimited lease period
- Move-out notice requirements
- Requirement to vacate 14 days before lease end
- Inventory list (appliances, fixtures, furniture)
- Access rights (bicycle storage, laundry facilities, common areas)
- Maintenance responsibilities (yours vs. landlord’s)
✅ Request and keep a copy of building house rules (husorden)
Financial & Legal Protection
✅ Transfer deposit only AFTER receiving signed Danish lease agreement
✅ Check deposit amount (typically 3 months’ rent maximum)
✅ Secure comprehensive home insurance (indboforsikring)
✅ Check eligibility for housing allowance (boligstøtte) at borger.dk
✅ Keep all communication with landlord in writing
Move-In Day: Crucial Documentation
✅ Obtain and review detailed move-in report (indflytningsrapport)
✅ Take extensive photos of property condition (all rooms, floors, walls, appliances)
✅ Document any existing damage or defects
✅ Note: You must report any issues not documented in the move-in report within 14 days
Setting Up Your Danish Home
✅ Collect all appliance manuals (or request if missing)
✅ Review waste sorting and recycling guidelines for your municipality
✅ Set up utilities in your name (electricity, water, heating if applicable)
✅ Register your new address with the Danish authorities
During Your Tenancy: Ongoing Responsibilities
✅ Maintain the property according to lease terms
✅ Report maintenance issues promptly and in writing
✅ Keep records of all repair requests and landlord communications
✅ Save receipts for any approved tenant improvements
✅ Obtain written permission before making alterations
Preparing for Move-Out
✅ Provide proper written notice according to Danish lease agreement terms
✅ Schedule pre-inspection with landlord if possible
✅ Understand restoration requirements (painting, cleaning, etc.)
✅ Return the property in the condition received (allowing for normal wear and tear)
✅ Remove all personal belongings and waste
Final Move-Out Process
✅ Participate in move-out inspection if possible
✅ Receive detailed move-out report (must be provided within 14 days of move-out)
✅ Review settlement statement with itemized deductions
✅ Verify that deductions include only documented renovation costs
✅ Ensure prompt return of remaining deposit (typically within one month)
Tenant Rights Protection
✅ Know your rights under the Danish Rent Act (Lejeloven)
✅ Contact the Rent Committee (Huslejenævnet) for disputes
✅ Consider joining a tenant association (Lejernes Landsorganisation) for support
Important reminder: Always get all agreements and changes in writing. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce in case of disputes.
Need assistance?
Need assistance with your Danish lease agreement or rental experience? Visit copenhagenexpats.com for personalized guidance from our experienced team. We’ve helped hundreds of expats successfully navigate the Danish rental market.
Read our companion guides: “Understanding Danish Lease Agreements” and “My First Home in Denmark” for a seamless rental experience in Denmark.
