Former MP Ano Turtiainen’s apartment seized over unpaid maintenance fees as cases rise

Apartment seizures due to unpaid housing association fees have increased in Finland, with former MP Ano Turtiainen’s case drawing attention after his home was taken over by his housing company, reports public broadcaster Yle.

A survey by the Finnish Real Estate Management Association found that over half of property managers reported a rise in unpaid maintenance fees last year, while nearly a third noted more apartment seizures. The association’s research director, Olli Rekonen, attributed the trend to economic hardship, including higher unemployment and cuts to social benefits.

Turtiainen’s apartment in Mikkeli was seized in March after he and his spouse fell behind on payments totaling around €2,500. The housing association had issued a warning in February before proceeding with the three-year seizure. Turtiainen, who has been living in Russia since late last year, has stated on social media that he does not intend to pay debts to Finland, though he has not directly referenced the unpaid fees.

Under Finnish law, a housing association can seize an apartment if fees remain unpaid for three months. The association may then rent out the unit to cover financial losses. Rekonen noted that some associations use reserve funds to temporarily offset missing payments.

The Real Estate Management Association’s survey included responses from 308 property managers overseeing 6,900 housing companies.