Rent increases and new rent determination
The City of Helsinki determines rents according to the cost principle. This means that rents are not intended to generate profit, but to cover the City’s costs in providing special needs housing.
The City rents homes that have been sublet by other owners for use as special needs housing. This helps ensure there is sufficient housing in Helsinki to meet the needs of residents with special needs. However, some residents currently pay rent that is lower than the City’s costs for the housing and its management.
For example, residents of the same group home may have had different contract terms and rent levels. In some cases, the rent has been too low to cover housing costs. Rent increases are intended to correct this imbalance.
All residents will be offered the opportunity to continue living in their current home. If the rent becomes unaffordable after the increase, the City will help the resident to find a new home.
Security deposit required from some residents
A security deposit will be required from some residents to ensure that they meet their contractual obligations and take care of the property.
The deposit can be paid either in cash or with a Kela voucher. Detailed instructions will be provided with the new lease. If the deposit is paid in cash, it will be returned at the end of the lease.
Smoking prohibited both indoors and outdoors
New tenancy agreements prohibit smoking both inside the dwelling and in outdoor areas directly connected to it, such as balconies or courtyards. If there is a building-wide smoking ban, it applies throughout the property.
More information
Not all of the above changes will apply to every resident. Affected residents will be personally informed, and the new terms will be set out in the new lease and the accompanying instructions. Residents will receive their new lease at least six months before it takes effect.
The housing unit manager will assist residents with housing-related matters if needed.