Whether considering a big move to Denmark or planning an extended vacation, finding a place to stay is the most critical component. It can also be a confusing and stressful process.
Below, find everything you need to know about renting in Denmark. Learn about finding a rental, going through the paperwork process, and everything for which you must prepare.
Key Takeaways
- Renting in Denmark isn’t too tricky, even in the major cities. It’s competitive, and you’ll have to act fast, but it isn’t as bad as some other places.
- You’re almost guaranteed to get a fair price on your housing. Denmark has terrific protections for renters and controls rental rates.
- Danish homes are modest and tasteful. You’ll find lots of natural light, clean lines, and color palettes.
Finding a Rental
First things first: now that you’ve decided to live in Denmark, you must find a place.
How Much Is Rent?
Especially compared to some of its European neighbors, rent in Denmark isn’t terribly expensive. Of course, city centers will be much pricier than suburbs or outlying areas.
Rental rates are also subject to the laws of supply and demand. Still, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen for under USD 2,000 per month.
One thing you need to be aware of when looking for a rental in Denmark is that there are rental caps on properties. They vary depending on where you’re located but be sure the check. Sometimes landlords try to work around them with unsuspecting foreigners.
Where To Look for Denmark Rentals
Most landlords post listings online and allow you to communicate with them directly. There’s no need to hire an agent unless you want help in the search process.
Some of the best places to start looking for available apartments include
- AkutBolig
- Apartment in Copenhagen
- Bolig Portal
- Danish Homes
- Find Your Home
- Ledige Lejligheder
- Lejebolig
- Nordic Housing
- Wimdu
Is It Better to Buy or Rent in Denmark?
The answer to this question depends more on your long-term plans than anything else. From a strictly financial standpoint, you’re better off renting unless you make a permanent move.
While not against the law, it’s difficult for foreign nationals to buy property in Denmark. Wary of high rates of immigration, the Danish government wants to keep land in the hand of its people.
Renters are well-protected, and there’s ample subsidized housing if you qualify. Even if you don’t, it helps keep rental rates low.
How To Rent a Place
Now that you know where and how to find your Denmark digs, we can look at the legal processes.
Documents and Legal Status for Rentals
You don’t need much documentation to prove eligibility for renting in Denmark. If you’re from a non-European Union country, you’ll need proof that you’re legally in the country. Your visa should do the trick.
In addition, you may need to show proof of income and put down a deposit. If you’re on a work visa, that’s usually enough proof of employment. You might be asked to submit bank statements if you're on a tourist visa.
Understanding Danish Rental Contracts
Danish rental agreements aren’t very different from those you’ll find in most of the world. They protect both you and the landlord equally.
The rental agreement should stipulate the amount of rent to be collected monthly, how to pay, who is responsible for the utilities, how repairs are handled, and whether the property can be sublet. Look for the landlord’s full name, address, and descriptions of any communal spaces.
You can try to negotiate your rent, but most people don’t have luck, especially foreign renters. You may have more leverage with specific terms or clauses, including bringing down the deposit amount.
Are Danish Renters Well Protected?
Yes, the typical Danish rental agreement contains many protections for renters. In addition, Denmark has a law prohibiting landlords from automatically raising rents at the time of renewal. That doesn’t mean your rent won’t go up, but it won’t be an arbitrary, automatic hike.
In addition, Denmark has strict standards when it comes to construction and rental properties. You can rest comfortably knowing that your new home is safe. It will probably be well-insulated, too.
Things to Know About Danish Homes
There are a few things to know about Danish homes. You won’t be surprised when encountering them during your house hunt.
Like many apartments and homes in Europe, they are small, especially in the cities. Americans are often shocked at how small European kitchens are, and Denmark is no exception. Unless you rent a large apartment, expect just enough space to cook a meal and store food for a few days.
Your residence will probably have a clothes washer but may not have a dryer. Or, there might be a two-in-one washer and dryer.
Danish homes and buildings are known for minimalist, modern design. You’ll find clean color palettes and simple lines. In the interest of efficiency, most homes are also designed to maximize the use of natural light.
Terms To Know
There are a few terms that are helpful to know while you’re looking for a place:
- Andelslejlighed: a single unit in a co-op building
- Ejerlejlighed: a condominium
- Leje ud: rent or lease
- Lejelejlighed: an apartment that is available for rent
- Møbleret: a furnished apartment
Keeping these bookmarked while reading through ads will help you a great deal.
FAQs
We have answers to your remaining questions.
How competitive is the Denmark housing market?
It’s not as bad as some European countries, but it is competitive. If you find a place you really love that you can see yourself living in, sign an agreement as quickly as possible.
Does Denmark have a high cost of living?
Again, it is high but lower than in other parts of Europe. It’s more expensive than in the United States but less so than in other northern European countries, particularly Iceland and Norway.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, with this guide, you are now well-informed to safely and quickly rent a house in Denmark. Look at the recommended websites, prepare the documentation, and ensure you understand the contract you sign.
Related: Rent a car in Denmark
