Landlord Rights in Estonia (2025 Guide)

18.11.2025 • Rent out your property
Landlord Rights in Estonia (2025 Guide)

Landlord Rights in Estonia (2025 Guide)

Estonia has one of the most balanced rental laws in Europe, offering protection to both tenants and landlords. However, many landlords are not aware of their full rights — especially when it comes to rent increases, eviction rules and apartment access. This guide explains your rights clearly and practically in 2025.

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1. Right to receive rent on time

Tenants must pay rent by the agreed date. If they fail to do so:

  • you may charge late payment interest (if specified in the contract)
  • you may send an official payment reminder
  • you may terminate the contract if payments are repeatedly late

2. Right to take a deposit (up to 3 months)

Estonian law allows landlords to request:

  • up to 3 months' rent as deposit

Deposit can be used for:

  • unpaid rent
  • damage to the apartment
  • cleaning costs if tenant leaves the apartment dirty

3. Right to increase rent

Rent can be increased legally if:

  • rules for increasing rent are included in the contract
  • tenant is notified in writing
  • notice period is respected

4. Right to access the apartment (with rules)

The landlord may access the apartment for:

  • repairs
  • inspections
  • emergencies
Access must always be agreed in advance — except in emergencies (e.g. water leak).

5. Right to require proper maintenance

  • tenant must keep the apartment clean
  • tenant must prevent damage
  • tenant must inform about issues immediately

6. Right to terminate the contract

You may terminate the contract if the tenant:

  • does not pay rent
  • damages the property
  • breaks house rules
  • sublets the apartment illegally
  • behaves in a way that disturbs neighbours

7. Right to compensation for damages

You may claim compensation for:

  • broken appliances
  • missing furniture
  • holes in walls
  • water or fire damage caused by the tenant

8. Right to evict — via legal process

Forced eviction without court order is illegal in Estonia. However, landlords may start eviction proceedings if the tenant:

  • does not pay rent
  • refuses to leave after contract termination
  • damages property

9. Right to digital signatures

Landlords may require tenants to sign contracts via:

  • ID-card
  • Mobile-ID
  • Smart-ID

10. Right to choose tenants freely

You may reject applicants based on:

  • income instability
  • poor references
  • lack of deposit
  • risky behaviour

Protect your rental property and find reliable tenants using RNB.ee.