Subletting in Sweden: Tenant Rights & Limits
Renting out your place in second hand can help cover rent or share housing, but there are clear rules for tenants in Sweden. This guide explains when you need the landlord's consent, what limits exist for subletting, the responsibilities and risks you as a tenant should know, and how to act if a dispute arises. We review practical steps to document agreements, which forms and authorities can assist — including the Rent Tribunal — and when you should seek legal advice. The language is simple so you can feel confident to act and protect your rights as a tenant in Sweden.
What applies to subletting?
A tenant usually needs the landlord's consent to sublet, unless the lease or law provides otherwise. The rules on rent are found in the Land Code, chapter 12, which governs when consent can be required and the rights of both tenant and landlord.[1]
When is consent required?
Consent is normally required if you sublet the entire dwelling or for longer periods, but exceptions exist for temporary swaps or approved lodgers. Common reasons for refusal must be objective.
- Request written consent from the landlord (form).
- Agree on rent and responsibility for payments between you and the subtenant (rent).
- Set rules for keys and access to the home (privacy).
What can and can you not do?
You may not charge unreasonable rents or transfer the contract if the landlord has expressly forbidden subletting. You are responsible for keeping the dwelling in good condition and for damages that occur during the sublet.
- Do not charge a rent that clearly exceeds your own rent without justification (rent).
- Be responsible for necessary repairs and maintenance resulting from use (repair).
- Keep documentation: contract, payment receipts and photos of the property condition (record).
Documentation and evidence
Document everything in writing: send confirmations by email, keep receipts for paid rent and take photos before and after the sublet. If problems arise, good documentation is often decisive in a dispute.
- Photograph the property's condition before subletting (record).
- Create a clear subletting agreement and retain copies (form).
- Save all rent payments and receipts (rent).
Dispute and official support
If you and the landlord cannot agree, the case can be tried by the Rent Tribunal. Applications and information on dispute resolution are available via the Courts and the Rent Tribunal.[2]
FAQ
- Do I always need the landlord's permission to sublet?
- No, but in most cases consent is required. Exceptions may apply for shorter or temporary arrangements; check your contract and the law.
- Can the landlord demand a higher rent from me if I sublet?
- The landlord cannot unilaterally raise your rent because you sublet without specific reasons and legal grounds.
- What do I do if the subtenant does not pay?
- Keep all communication and receipts, contact the tenant in writing and consider reporting the claim to the Enforcement Authority if it remains unpaid.
How to
- Contact the landlord and request written consent (call).
- Draft a written subletting agreement that sets out rent and responsibility (form).
- Document the property's condition with photos and keep all payment receipts (record).
- If disagreement persists, apply to the Rent Tribunal for review (court).
Key takeaways
- Always obtain written consent when required (form).
- Keep receipts and documentation from the start (record).
- Seek help early from the Rent Tribunal in disputes (call).
Help and support / Resources
- [1] Riksdagen.se — Land Code, chapter 12
- [2] Domstol.se — Information about the Rent Tribunal
- [3] Kronofogden.se — Enforcement and debt collection
