Tenant’s rights and responsibilities

Condition of the apartment, Exchange students, Moving, Tenancy agreement

When you move into a rental apartment, familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. As a landlord, Soihtu adheres to the law governing residential leases, and we expect you will familiarize yourself with it as well.

Did you know that as a tenant, you have the right to…

… peace and quiet at home? No one can enter your apartment without notice. Maintenance work is only carried out at your request or with proper advance notice from the landlord.

… apartment maintenance? The landlord is responsible for the upkeep and repairs of the apartment.

… temporarily assign the apartment to someone else? You can do this for up to 24 months if you need to stay in another location for studies, work, illness, or a similar reason.

… terminate the tenancy agreement without a special reason? Typically, termination follows a statutory one-calendar-month notice period and must always be done in writing. A fixed-term tenancy agreement CANNOT be terminated.

… a rent reduction or exemption if the apartment cannot be used or is not in the agreed or legally required condition?

However, tenants also have certain responsibilities, such as…

… paying the rent on time.

… keeping the apartment clean and in good condition.

… promptly notifying the landlord (by making a maintenance request) of any defects or issues in the apartment.

… considering the neighbors and adhering to the community rules.

… obtaining permission from the landlord for any alterations or repairs in the apartment.

… leaving the apartment in clean condition and returning all keys upon moving out.

Other important things to remember when signing a lease:

• Always read the terms of the tenancy agreement carefully. The terms often mention rent increases and other factors that may affect changes to the agreement.
• Home insurance is important to protect your belongings in case of damages in the apartment or shared storage areas.
• Check if water and electricity are included in the rent. If not, you need to make an electricity contract with your chosen provider. At Soihtu, electricity (and in certain residences, also water) is included in the lease.