Finnish law protects the home against unauthorized entry. Constitution of Finland (731/1999), section 10 guarantees the sanctity of the home; Act on Residential Leases (481/1995), section 22 limits a landlord's right of entry to specific lawful purposes and requires arranging access at a suitable agreed time; and Criminal Code (39/1889), chapter 24, section 1 criminalizes unlawful invasion of domestic premises. Unauthorized entry is illegal for private parties, including landlords and maintenance staff. Public authorities (including police) may enter only when a separate legal basis and statutory conditions are met.
What happened, when, and by whom: on 31 August at approximately midnight, two HOAS maintenance workers entered a resident's apartment while the resident was asleep to carry out non-emergency repairs. They were told not to enter, instructed to leave, and asked to return another day. Despite that, they knowingly continued into the unit and proceeded without authorization.
Since that night, additional security measures have been installed, including a secondary security lock, lock changes, and cameras, yet the deeper damage has been psychological and ongoing. Being caught off guard in bed has been linked to PTSD and persistent insomnia, with ongoing fear of repeat entry without warning. The impact is not limited to one home; it undermines the feeling of safety across residential spaces more broadly. If this can happen once without consequences, it can happen to any tenant in any unit.
It is alleged that HOAS has claimed nothing unlawful occurred and declined to accept responsibility or accountability. It is further alleged that, for more than a year and now approaching two years after the incident, these two maintenance workers and others have remained on payroll despite repeated concerns. This is presented as evidence of awareness of the problem while publicly denying it and minimizing liability exposure, while continued access allegedly enabled later harassment inside another resident's home. Police have been involved, official reports have been filed, and the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Finland has been informed. This matter is advancing and is expected to require a final court decision.
The goal of this page is to show how easily tenant rights can be dismissed in practice. If this can happen to one resident, it can happen to others. Please be aware and take precautions: we strongly recommend installing a security lock and strengthening your home security now. If you view this as a serious issue, please complete the form below. Your response helps document tenant consensus and supports accountability, safety, and lawful standards for everyone in the building.