rental May 28, 2026

New-build rental apartment: What to check before moving in

By Bolighub Published May 28, 2026 Updated May 28, 2026 Reading time: 4 min.
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A new-build rental apartment can be bright, energy-efficient and easy to move into. But “new” does not automatically mean problem-free. There may be construction dust, defects, delayed shared facilities, temporary operation or utility costs that only become clear after a few months.

If you are considering a new-build rental, check the lease, move-in condition, energy information and everyday practicalities.

Benefits of new-build rentals

New-build apartments often offer:

  • Modern layout
  • Lift, balcony or shared facilities
  • Better insulation than many older homes
  • Ventilation or newer technical installations
  • New kitchen and bathroom
  • Less need for work at move-in

For many tenants, the attraction is comfort and low maintenance.

Disadvantages to take seriously

New-build rentals can also have drawbacks:

  • Higher rent than older homes.
  • The surrounding area may still be a construction site.
  • Shared facilities may be delayed.
  • Ventilation, heating, doors or windows may have early defects.
  • The apartment may lack curtains, lamps and storage.
  • Empty new rooms can have hard acoustics.
  • Utility use can be difficult to estimate in the first year.

Do not only ask: “Is it new?” Ask: “Is it ready for everyday life?”

Check the lease carefully

New-build rentals are often professionally managed, but you still need to read the lease. Check:

  • Start date and what happens if the home is not ready.
  • Rent and utility prepayments.
  • Deposit and prepaid rent.
  • Any non-termination period.
  • Use of shared facilities.
  • Maintenance obligations.
  • Pets, balcony, barbecue, smoking and shared areas.
  • Whether parking, storage room or bicycle parking is included.

The Danish Ministry of Social Affairs, Housing and Senior Citizens explains that a lease sets out the rights and obligations of the parties. Special terms should therefore be clear.

Move-in: document everything

In a new-build apartment, it is easy to assume everything is perfect. Still, inspect the home systematically.

Check:

  • Scratches in floors, countertops and windows
  • Crooked cabinet doors or interior doors
  • Cracks, joints and paint defects
  • Ventilation and extractor hood
  • Water pressure and drains
  • Heating in all rooms
  • Appliances
  • Balcony door and windows
  • Door phone, internet outlets and sockets

The ministry explains that the landlord must provide the rented home in good and proper condition, and that the condition at takeover matters for both defect claims and move-out claims. Take photos and send a written defect list after moving in.

Energy label and utilities

SparEnergi explains that buildings must have an energy label in connection with construction, sale and rental. The energy label shows the building’s energy quality and improvement suggestions.

As a tenant, ask for the energy label or expected utility information. Remember that the energy label is based on the building and standard assumptions. Your actual consumption also depends on temperature, showers, airing habits and electricity use.

Ventilation in new-build homes

Many new-build homes are tight and have mechanical ventilation. That is good when the system works and is used correctly. If vents are closed, filters are not changed or the system is incorrectly adjusted, the indoor climate can suffer.

Ask:

  • How does the ventilation work?
  • Can vents be adjusted?
  • Who changes filters?
  • Where do you report faults?
  • What do you do if the system is noisy?

Advice for tenants

Visit the area at different times before saying yes. A new-build home may be close to traffic, rail lines, future construction or commercial areas. Check sun, noise, shopping, transport and daily logistics.

Also check the total cost. A new-build home with higher rent may be reasonable if heating is low and transport is cheap. But if rent already strains the budget, new materials will not fix that.

Advice for landlords

Be clear about what is finished at move-in and what will come later. Tenants accept temporary conditions more easily when they know the timeline. Create a structured process for defects so residents know where to report issues and when they will receive an answer.

Also provide a short resident guide for ventilation, floors, appliances, balcony and shared facilities.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a new-build home has no defects.
  • Overlooking non-termination or high upfront payments.
  • Forgetting storage room, parking and bicycle facilities.
  • Underestimating construction noise in a developing area.
  • Closing ventilation without understanding the system.
  • Failing to take photos at move-in.

FAQ

Are new-build rentals more expensive?

Often yes, but not always. Compare the total cost: rent, utilities, transport, parking, internet and any shared services.

Does a new-build rental need an energy label?

Yes, buildings must be energy-labelled in connection with construction, sale and rental.

What should I check at move-in?

Check floors, walls, joints, cabinet doors, doors, windows, water, heating, ventilation, appliances and electricity. Take photos and report defects in writing.

Can a new-build apartment have mould?

It can happen if there are moisture problems, construction defects, ventilation issues or incorrect use. React to smells, condensation and discoloration.

What if the home is not ready on the move-in date?

It depends on the lease and the situation. Contact the landlord in writing immediately and seek advice if the delay causes financial loss.

Sources and further reading