How to rent an apartment in Finland: a complete guide

Are you planning to move to Finland and looking for a rental home? Whether you’re relocating for work, studies, or lifestyle, understanding how to rent an apartment in Finland will help you navigate the system confidently. Finland’s rental market is organized, transparent, and tenant-friendly, but it also has its own rules and expectations. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to rent a home in Finland, including costs, documents, tenant rights, and how to use Oikotie, one of the most trusted apartment-search platforms in the country.

Rental apartments in Finland

1. Overview: what makes renting in Finland different?

The Finnish rental market is known for:

• Clear rental legislation
• Well-maintained housing
• High transparency between landlords and tenants
• Digital contracts and modern apartment search tools

Most people begin their apartment search in Finland online, with Oikotie being a leading platform for browsing rental listings across the country.

Types of rental housing in Finland:

• Private rentals: Most common; wide range of apartments in all cities.
• ARA / non-profit housing: Subsidized rent; long queues and income limits.
• Student housing:  Affordable rooms and apartments for students.

Most apartments are unfurnished, although kitchens always come equipped with a fridge/freezer and stove.

2. Where to search for apartments in Finland

When people search for a rental apartment in Finland, online platforms are essential.
Oikotie is one of the most comprehensive portals, trusted by both locals and international renters.

Why Oikotie is a top choice:

• Thousands of verified rental listings
• Easy filters for price, location, size, and pet-friendly options
• Clear comparison tools
• English-friendly interface
• Updated daily

Whether you’re looking for a studio in Helsinki, a one-bedroom in Tampere, or a family home in Espoo, Oikotie gives a reliable overview of prices and availability.

Rental apartments in Finland

3. Documents needed to rent an apartment in Finland

 Identification

• Passport
• Residence permit (if applicable)

Proof of income or financial stability

• Employment contract
• Recent payslips
• Scholarship or study grant information
• Bank statements or other proof of funds (less common, but sometimes requested)

Personal introduction (recommended)

While not a formal requirement, it is very common in the Finnish rental market, especially in competitive cities like Helsinki, to include a short introduction explaining:

• Who you are
• What you do (work or studies)
• Why you are looking for an apartment
• Who will live with you
• Whether you have pets

 Optional but helpful documents

• Reference from a previous landlord
• Recommendation from an employer or supervisor

4. How much does it cost to rent in Finland?

Rental prices vary significantly by city. Here’s what you can expect:

Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment:

Additional monthly costs:

• Water fee: €20–€30 per person
• Electricity: Tenant chooses their provider (easy to set up)
• Internet: Often included in building maintenance
• Sauna reservation: €10–€20 (optional weekly slot)

Security deposit

Most landlords require 1–3 months’ rent as a deposit.
Some housing companies offer no-deposit apartments, but this varies.

5. Understanding finnish rental contracts

Rental contracts in Finland are usually written and highly standardized, which offers strong protection for tenants.

Two main contract types:

1. Open-ended (toistaiseksi voimassa)

• Most common
• Tenant’s notice period: 1 month
• Landlord’s notice period: 3 months

2. Fixed-term (määräaikainen)

• Lasts for a set time
• Cannot easily be terminated early

What to check before signing:

• Deposit amount
• Duration of contract
• Pets allowed or not
• Smoking rules
• Rent-increase clause
• What utilities are included
• Condition report (always read and photograph the apartment)

Electronic signing is widely used, making the process convenient even if you’re still abroad.

6. Step-by-step: How to rent an apartment in Finland

Step 1: Start your search on Oikotie

Filter based on location, size, price, and availability.

Step 2: Contact the landlord

Send a short, friendly message introducing yourself.

Step 3: Attend the viewing

Viewings are often group showings or scheduled individually.

Step 4: Submit documents

Provide proof of income, identification, and your introduction.

Step 5: Sign the rental contract

You will receive the contract digitally or in person.

Step 6: Pay the deposit

Payment is usually required before key handover.

Step 7: Move-in inspection

Report any issues immediately so they are not charged later.

7. Tenant rights and responsibilities in Finland

Finland has some of the strongest tenant protections in Europe.

Your rights:

• Safe and functional living conditions
• Privacy — landlord cannot enter without permission
• Transparent rent-increase rules
• Fair eviction laws
• Heating standards (very important in winter)

Your responsibilities:

• Pay rent on time
• Follow building rules (quiet hours are common)
• Maintain general cleanliness
• Notify landlords about issues early

Tenants in Finland also enjoy well-maintained buildings, reliable heating, and good sound insulation.

8. How to avoid rental scams in Finland

Although Finland is generally safe, scams can still appear online.

Warning signs to look out for:

• Landlord claims to be abroad and cannot show the apartment
• Requests for payment before signing a contract
• Unrealistically low rent
• No official contract offered
• Poor communication or pressure to pay quickly

Using established platforms like Oikotie significantly reduces scam risk, as listings are monitored and come from verified sources.

9. Common finnish terms for renting