FINLAND | Accommodation | Cultural information
Rental contract
When you live in Finland you need an insurance for your accommodation. The insurance covers the possible damage or accidents. The landlord usually wants to check that the student’s insurance is valid.
You should always make a written lease contract. If you know how long your stay will be, make contract of definite duration. The rent will be paid monthly to your landlord’s account. You can usually move in the beginning or in the middle of the month.
Rental conditions
In Finland there is a law which regulates all the Letting/Accommodation businesses. That includes regulations about the amount of rent and the contract. www.kuluttajavirasto.fi
The rent is normally paid in advance. You need enough money for the monthly rent and for a deposit, which usually is one month’s rent. Make sure that you get a receipt for all rents and deposit paid. The deposit is refundable at the end of the lease – if you have followed the regulations and there is no damage to the property.
Living together with Finns
The best way to get to know Finns and other students is to live in student apartment. There are advantages in living with other students but it is also a challenge. The student can lock his/her own door, but she/he needs to share the kitchen, bathroom and toilet.
The student needs to adapt to different customs and manners, eg. agree on using the common areas. Smoking and usage of alcohol are matters that need to be discussed.
The Finns might be quiet and shy. By getting familiar with the Finnish customs you are able to avoid the greatest mistakes.
Many Finns speak English, so it’s usually easy to sort out things.