Residents in Kärkölä, Finland, endure over eight weeks without hot water amid landlord neglect

Residents of an apartment building in Kärkölä, Finland, are expressing their frustration after being without hot water for over eight weeks. Riina Kirs, a resident of Järvelä, stated, “We are really angry! Life has become very difficult.” All 26 rental apartments in Kirs’ building have faced this issue since early July. Residents claim that the landlord has repeatedly promised to resolve the problem but has taken no action. They report that communication from the owner is often lacking, with many messages going unanswered.

In addition to the hot water interruption, the overall state of the property has been declining. Residents have noticed signs of deterioration, such as a broken door glass and signs of neglect throughout the building. “It was really cold last winter; I had to sleep under three blankets with a hat on. Fortunately, I can shower at work, as taking a cold shower in a cold apartment is not appealing,” Kirs explained.

While the situation seems unusual, officials from the Property Association note that similar cases have occurred before. The interruption of hot water and district heating isn’t necessarily illegal, as it involves contractual agreements between the landlord and the heat supply company. The company owning the building is currently undergoing debt restructuring due to unpaid bills exceeding €20,000 to Kärkölän Lämpö Oy, as well as an additional €20,000 in taxes.

Amidst these struggles, some residents have decided to move out. Kirs and fellow tenant Jonna Luuri-Soininen have already signed rental agreements for new apartments, declaring they will withhold rent in light of the landlord’s ongoing failure to deliver on promises of hot water. However, experts advise against this approach, suggesting proper communication and negotiation as more beneficial strategies.