Move-out Rules and Restoration in Denmark
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Danish law sets clear rules for what happens when a tenancy ends:
- Notice period: Tenants must give 3 months' notice (from the first of a month) unless the lease specifies otherwise.
- Restoration (istandsættelse): You must return the property in the condition specified in the lease — typically involving painting (normalistandsættelse).
- Normal wear and tear: Since 2015, landlords cannot require the property to be returned in a better condition than it was at move-in. The tenant is only responsible for normal painting and repairs proportional to the length of the tenancy.
- Move-out inspection: For landlords with multiple properties, a move-out inspection must be held within 2 weeks of you vacating. If the landlord fails to hold it, they forfeit the right to make claims against your deposit.
When does it apply?
- You are ending your tenancy and preparing to move out.
- You have moved out and are waiting for your deposit back.
What to Do If Your Landlord Claims Excessive Restoration Costs When You Move Out in Denmark
- Give proper written notice — typically 3 months from the first of a month.
- Attend the move-out inspection and review the landlord's list of claimed deficiencies.
- Take photos and video of the property's condition before handing over the keys.
- If you disagree with deductions from your deposit, file a complaint with the Huslejenævnet.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't agree to restore beyond what the law requires — since 2015, 'nyistandsættelse' (returning the property as new) cannot be imposed on tenants.
- Don't skip the move-out inspection — your presence lets you challenge claims on the spot.
- Don't leave without giving proper notice — you are liable for rent during the notice period even if you've moved out.
Common Questions
How much notice do I need to give before moving out in Denmark?
Under the Lejeloven, tenants must give 3 months' notice from the first of a month, unless the lease specifies otherwise. If you leave without giving proper notice, you are liable for rent during the notice period even if you've moved out. Submit your notice in writing to the landlord.
Do I have to repaint the apartment when I move out in Denmark?
You must return the property in the condition specified in the lease, typically involving painting (normalistandsættelse). Since 2015, landlords cannot require the property to be returned in a better condition than it was at move-in. You are only responsible for normal painting and repairs proportional to the length of the tenancy — 'nyistandsættelse' (return as new) is not allowed.
What happens at the Danish move-out inspection?
For landlords with multiple properties, a move-out inspection must be held within 2 weeks of you vacating — if the landlord fails to hold it, they forfeit the right to make claims against your deposit. Attend the inspection, review the list of claimed deficiencies, and take photos and video of the condition before handing over the keys. Dispute unfair deductions at the Huslejenævnet.
When does it apply — move-out rules and restoration?
You are ending your tenancy and preparing to move out.You have moved out and are waiting for your deposit back.
What should I do if my landlord is demanding I repaint or restore the apartment beyond normal wear and tear in Denmark?
Give proper written notice — typically 3 months from the first of a month.Attend the move-out inspection and review the landlord's list of claimed deficiencies.Take photos and video of the property's condition before handing over the keys.If you disagree with deductions from your deposit, file a complaint with the Huslejenævnet.
What should you NOT do — move-out rules and restoration?
Don't agree to restore beyond what the law requires — since 2015, 'nyistandsættelse' (returning the property as new) cannot be imposed on tenants.Don't skip the move-out inspection — your presence lets you challenge claims on the spot.Don't leave without giving proper notice — you are liable for rent during the notice period even if you've moved out.