Rental contract: complete checklist before you sign

A rental contract is a legally binding document that can cost you dearly if you don't read it carefully. This guide walks through every important point you need to check before signing.

Standard contract: Typeformular A9

In Denmark, most landlords use Typeformular A9, the official rental contract template. It comes in two versions:

* A9 from 2001 (old): still used in some places * A9 from 2015 (new): the current standard

Make sure which version you're signing. The new one is better for tenants.

The most important sections

§ 1: The rented unit

Check that the address and size match what you saw.

§ 2: Start and end of the lease

* Move-in date: realistic? * Fixed-term or open-ended lease? * Notice period: typically 3 months for the tenant, longer for the landlord

§ 3: Rent

* Amount: matches what you agreed? * Payment date: usually the 1st of the month * Increases: how is the rent adjusted?

§ 4: Deposit and prepaid rent

* Deposit: maximum 3 months' rent * Prepaid rent: maximum 3 months' rent

Read our complete deposit rules guide.

§ 11: Improvements

This is the most dangerous clause! § 11 gives the landlord the right to carry out modernizations and raise the rent significantly. Check:

* Which improvements can the landlord require? * How much can the rent rise? * Do you need to agree?

Important: If § 11 is broad and unspecific, the landlord can in the worst case raise the rent 30-50% after a renovation. Insist on concrete limits.

Checklist before signing

The unit: * [ ] Have I seen the place in person? * [ ] Do the address and size match? * [ ] Are appliances and fixtures documented?

Economics: * [ ] Rent is reasonable (compared to market) * [ ] Deposit is max 3 months' rent * [ ] Prepaid rent is max 3 months' rent * [ ] Rent increases are clearly described

Legal: * [ ] Time limitation has a valid reason (if relevant) * [ ] § 11 is specific (not too broad) * [ ] Pet rules suit me * [ ] House rules read and acceptable

Red flags in rental contracts

Watch out if the contract contains:

* Vague wording like "the landlord decides" * Unbounded § 11: can cost you later * Unreasonable notice for tenant (more than 3 months) * Bans on normal things: guests, internet, pets (without reason) * "Service fees" on top of rent

Get it reviewed

If you're unsure about anything:

1. Lejernes Landsorganisation (LLO): about DKK 75/mo, free contract review 2. Lawyer: DKK 1,500-3,000 for review 3. Legal aid clinics: free advice at several universities

Conclusion

A rental contract is a legally binding document. Key advice:

* Read everything carefully: every clause matters * Ask if in doubt: get it in writing * Get it reviewed: LLO or a lawyer * Never sign under pressure: take your time * Keep copies: of all documents, receipts and correspondence

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Read also: * How to find the perfect rental in Denmark * Deposit rules in Denmark * Pets in rentals: what the law says