Aconto vs Fixed Amount: Tenant in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to understand the difference between aconto payments and a fixed amount in rent and fee matters. Misinterpretations can lead to unexpected costs, inadequate maintenance or disputes with the landlord. This guide explains what each payment model means, common mistakes tenants make, and what rights you have under Swedish practice. You will get concrete advice on how to check invoices, document faults and communicate repair demands. The guide also shows how to act if a charge seems unreasonable or if maintenance is not performed on time. The goal is to give you clear, practical steps to protect your rights as a tenant in Sweden.

What do aconto and fixed amount mean?

A conto often means preliminary or estimated payments for e.g. heating, water or services that are adjusted afterwards. A fixed amount is a determined fee that does not change continuously. It is important to read the lease to see which model applies and how invoices are specified. In some cases, issues about rent and fees are governed by the Swedish Code of Land (Chapter 12) and case law^[1].

Common mistakes

• Confusing aconto with a fixed amount, which affects payment (payment) and budgeting.
• Not checking invoices or obtaining a clear breakdown (form) from the landlord.
• Lack of documentation of defects or damage, which complicates evidence (evidence).
• Waiting too long to contact the landlord or authority (contact), which can complicate legal processes.

What can the tenant do?

Start by comparing invoices with the lease and note what is stated about aconto and fixed fees. Request a breakdown if you do not understand the items. Contact the landlord in writing and request action for faults or neglected maintenance.

• Check invoices and compare amounts (payment) against what was agreed.
• Document faults with dates, photos and descriptions (evidence).
• Send a written complaint or demand to the landlord and keep copies (form).
• If no solution is reached, consider applying to the Rent Tribunal for review (court).

When and how to get help?

If you cannot agree, the Rent Tribunal can review issues about rent, fees and maintenance. Application procedures and e‑services are available via the courts website^[2]. Enforcement of decisions is handled by the Enforcement Authority if needed^[3].

Frequently asked questions

What are aconto payments?

A conto are preliminary charges that may later be adjusted according to actual consumption or cost.

Can the landlord charge both aconto and a fixed amount?

Yes, but it must be clearly stated in the agreement how each item is calculated and regulated.

Where do I turn if I and the landlord disagree?

Contact the Rent Tribunal for review or advice and save all documentation before you apply.

How to

1. Read your lease carefully to see what is regulated about aconto and fixed fees.
2. Keep invoices, receipts and photos as evidence of faults or costs.
3. Contact the landlord in writing and request explanation or action.
4. If you do not agree, submit an application to the Rent Tribunal for review.

Key points

• Always save written communication and receipts.
• Request prompt action on maintenance issues that affect habitability.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal – applications and e‑services
• Riksdag — Code of Land (Jordabalken)
• Enforcement Authority – information on enforcement

1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken (1970:994)
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and e‑services
3. [3] Kronofogden — Information on enforcement