Sandra Eshaq expected some repair costs after eight years in her Snertinge apartment. She never imagined receiving a move-out bill for 643,397 kroner. The amount shocked her so much she initially thought she could buy a house for that price. The case highlights growing concerns about rental practices in Denmark's competitive housing market.
Several tenants report receiving six-figure move-out bills from property company Gode Ejendomme. The company manages over 90 rental properties across Zealand and Lolland-Falster. The problems began when the company purchased multiple buildings on the same small street in Snertinge.
Anika Nielsen experienced similar issues in her Gode Ejendomme apartment. She reported seven to eight dangerous mold infestations throughout her unit. The local municipality eventually declared the apartment unhealthy for habitation. Yet she still received a 177,587 kroner bill for repairs after moving out.
Both women refused to pay the amounts demanded. Their cases went to court where a critical detail emerged. Their previous landlord had never completed move-in inspection reports. This documentation gap proved crucial in challenging the massive bills.
Professor Hans Henrik Edlund, a tenancy law expert from Aarhus University, reviewed the cases. He suggests pattern of high bills could indicate a renovation strategy funded by tenants. Landlords must document actual losses to justify move-out charges. Missing inspection reports make this nearly impossible.
The company director declined interview requests but provided written statements. He claims apartments were left with extensive damage beyond normal wear and tear. He denies having a strategy to make tenants pay for general renovations.
Anika Nielsen won her court case completely. The company dropped all claims against her. Sandra Eshaq reached a settlement for 60,000 kroner, which she continues paying in installments. The company claims this reflected her payment ability rather than the original bill's validity.
These cases reveal important lessons for Danish renters. Always review documents carefully before signing. Insist on proper move-in inspection reports. Understand that digital signatures on tablets might hide important details. Tenants have legal protections against unreasonable move-out charges.
The rental market in Northwest Zealand remains competitive. International readers should note Denmark's strong tenant protections. Yet cases like these show how documentation gaps can create costly disputes. Always photograph your apartment before moving in. Keep records of all communications with landlords.
Rental disputes are increasing across Denmark as property prices rise. Tenants facing similar situations should contact tenant organizations for legal advice. The Danish rental system generally favors tenants, but proper documentation remains essential.