A conto bills, why utilities settle yearly
What a conto means
Many Danish utilities, especially district heating (fjernvarme) and water, are billed a conto: you pay a fixed monthly estimate based on expected consumption. Once a year the provider reads your actual usage and reconciles it. Use less than estimated and you get money back; use more and you owe the difference.
Why the annual settlement matters
The annual årsopgørelse (settlement) can be a pleasant refund or an unwelcome extra bill, so do not treat the monthly a conto as your true cost. A cold winter with high heating use can mean a bill in spring. Budget for the possibility.
What is usually a conto
Typically heating and water. Electricity is often billed on actual metered use (Denmark has smart meters and a liberalised market where you choose your supplier), though some plans also use a conto. Check each bill so you know which is estimate and which is actual.
Tips
Read your meters when you move in and out so you are not charged for a previous tenant. If your usage changes (you move, work from home, have a baby), ask to adjust the monthly a conto so the annual settlement is not a shock. Utilities are often on top of rent, factor them into your budget.
Common questions
What does a conto mean in Denmark?
You pay an estimated monthly amount for a utility, then settle against actual use once a year, getting a refund or a bill.
Which bills are a conto?
Usually heating (fjernvarme) and water; electricity is often billed on actual use.
Why did I get a big utility bill?
The annual settlement charged you for using more than your monthly a conto estimate, common after a cold winter.