Renting in Denmark

Many expats prefer to rent in Denmark instead of buying properties.

But finding a place to rent in the cities is not going to be easy. However, there are ways for an expat to get his or her own rented space. Expats can check the local or national newspapers or register with estate agents. 

Expats should decide on the type of accommodation tailored fit to their needs. The total area of apartments (lejlighed) is usually smaller in size than the size in the US. Terraced houses (raekkehus) have a larger space than apartments. Other accommodations available are detached houses (villa or hus) and summerhouses (sommerhus or fritidshus). 

Compared to London and Paris, the rental accommodation in Copenhagen is cheaper, but the capital is the most expensive place to live. Cost of rent highly depends on the property and location. The median cost of monthly rent for apartments ranges from DKK6,000 to DKK25,000 while for houses it can range from DKK10,000 to DKK40,000. Costs for utilities are not included.

The tenant is required to live in the property for at least 180 days per year and must register the new address with the National Registration Office.

A security deposit of up to three-month rent is required and a month's notice should be given to the landlord prior to leaving the property. The deposit will be returned in full (or less if any damage to the property is incurred) at the end of the tenancy.

Expats who do not have a CPR number will find difficulty in getting a long-term rental. This is the first thing that is asked prior to signing a tenancy agreement. Lease contracts usually require the tenant to live in the property for at least 180 days per year and to register at the National Registration Office. A month's notice is needed if tenants want to leave the property.