Kiinnitysvarat

Kiinnitysvarat, or "security deposits" in English, refer to funds provided by a tenant to a landlord as a form of financial assurance before or during the rental of a property. These deposits serve as collateral to cover potential damages, unpaid rent, or other financial obligations that may arise during the tenancy. In Finland, the use of kiinnitysvarat is regulated under the Tenancy Act (*Asuntovuokrauslaki*), which outlines the conditions under which they can be collected and returned.

The amount of the deposit is typically agreed upon between the landlord and tenant, though it is often capped at one month’s rent for residential properties. The deposit must be held in a separate account, and the landlord is legally obligated to return it to the tenant upon the termination of the lease, minus any deductions for legitimate costs such as repairs or cleaning. If the landlord fails to return the deposit or provides an incorrect accounting, the tenant may pursue legal recourse.

In practice, kiinnitysvarat help mitigate risks for landlords while providing tenants with a sense of security. However, disputes over deductions or improper handling of deposits can occur, emphasizing the importance of clear documentation and transparency between parties. Tenants are advised to carefully review the rental agreement and keep records of the property’s condition before moving in to avoid conflicts over deposit returns.