Rental deposits in Finland: refunds, deductions and tenant rights
Short answer: a rental deposit secures agreed obligations; it is not the landlord’s own money. Ordinary wear does not justify keeping it. Record the property’s condition when you move in and when you leave.
Current basic rules
This summary follows KKV guidance incorporating legislation effective from 1 October 2026. Checked on 11 November 2026.
| Question | KKV guidance |
|---|---|
| Maximum deposit | Equivalent to three months’ rent |
| Refund | Without delay, within 14 days of the tenancy ending |
| Justified obstacle to repayment | Without delay, within 14 days after the obstacle ends |
| Withholding money | The reason and a sufficiently detailed explanation must be provided |
The time limit does not permit keeping money without a reason. Nor does having a deposit allow you to skip the final rent payment.
Make a record of the property’s condition
Photograph rooms and existing marks. Record the number of keys, missing items and agreed repairs. Send your observations to the landlord in writing and retain the message and original photographs.
On departure, take comparison photographs after cleaning. Obtain written confirmation that the keys were returned. This lets a discussion focus on a specific observation rather than memories of the flat months later.
Wear and damage are different
KKV’s tenant responsibility guidance distinguishes careful use of the home from damage that can create liability. Tenants must look after the property and report damage. What happened and how it happened matter when assessing responsibility.
For a claim involving a floor, ask which mark is disputed, what the earlier condition was, what repair is proposed and how the amount was calculated. A vague statement that the flat was “in poor condition” is not enough to understand the claim.
If repayment is disputed
Write a clear request identifying the tenancy, deposit paid and amount you want returned. Attach relevant photographs and receipts. Ask for each disputed deduction to be itemised.
KKV recommends trying to resolve the issue with the landlord first. For a private landlord, Consumer Advisory Services provides general advice rather than the same mediation available for a business dispute. The Consumer Disputes Board can consider most residential tenancy disputes between private individuals too.
For finding accommodation, see the long-term renting guide. The renter document guide helps with preparation.
Frequently asked questions
No. They have different purposes. The agreement should identify the payment.
Yes. A dated record of the starting condition makes later comparison easier.
Take general views too, so the location and overall room are clear.
Report it promptly and retain the relevant information.
Request written reasons and an itemised explanation, then provide your evidence.
It records an important part of moving out and reduces uncertainty.
Official sources
Checked on 11 November 2026.
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