Budget and Debt Advice for Tenants in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, unexpected costs or debts can affect your housing situation and security. This guide explains step by step how budget and debt advice can help you prioritize rent, manage bills and communicate with your landlord. You will receive simple advice on documenting problems, applying for assistance and when it may be appropriate to take the matter to the Rent Tribunal or seek help from the Enforcement Authority. The text also explains which maintenance and repair responsibilities apply so you can assess who should fix damage and when you can demand action. We go through concrete budgeting steps, how to negotiate payment plans, which documents strengthen your case and where to get free local debt advice.
What is included in budget and debt advice?
Budget and debt advice for tenants focuses on creating a stable payment plan and reducing the risk of eviction. Advice may be municipal or commercial and helps you review income, expenses and possible support measures.
- Budget plan to prioritize rent and bills (rent)
- Overview of income, expenses and payment plans (payment)
- Advice when contacting landlord or suppliers (contact)
- Guidance on when the Rent Tribunal may be relevant (court)
- Help filling in applications or forms (form)
What does the law say?
In Sweden, many rental and maintenance issues are regulated in the Land Code (Jordabalken) chapter 12, and in practice by the Rent Tribunal. Read which obligations apply to landlord and tenant to determine who is responsible for repairs and what options you have in a dispute.[1]
What to do if repairs are not made?
If the landlord does not fix issues that affect the dwelling, act systematically: document the problem, inform the landlord in writing and request a written response. If nothing happens, contact the Rent Tribunal or seek advice from municipal debt counselling.
- Collect photos, dates and receipts as evidence (evidence)
- Send a written summary to the landlord and request action (notice)
- Note dates when you reported the issue and follow up within a reasonable time (deadline)
- If no action, consider applying to the Rent Tribunal (court)
How to act when facing eviction or payment problems
For unpaid rent, the landlord can apply for termination and ultimately enforcement. If you have payment difficulties: contact municipal debt counselling, propose a payment plan and seek legal advice if needed. In some cases the Rent Tribunal will handle the matter and the Enforcement Authority will manage enforcement.[2][3]
Frequently asked questions
- What can I get help with through budget and debt advice?
- You can get help making a budget, prioritising rent, negotiating payment plans and finding local support resources.
- Can I withhold rent if repairs are not made?
- Withholding rent is risky and should only be done after advice or a decision from the Rent Tribunal; always document deficiencies and your contacts with the landlord.
- How do I contact the Rent Tribunal or apply?
- You can submit an application to the Rent Tribunal via the court's e-services or forms available on domstol.se.
How to
- Collect evidence: photos, receipts and written communication that support your case.
- Write to the landlord and request action in writing, keep copies.
- If no solution is reached, apply to the Rent Tribunal with necessary attachments[2].
- If there is an enforcement decision, contact the Enforcement Authority or advisors for next steps[3].
Key takeaways
- Document everything: dates, photos and receipts matter.
- Contact debt counselling early to explore options.
- Seek written agreements for any payment plans.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Riksdagen — Legislation and statutes
- [2] Domstol.se — Information about the Rent Tribunal
- [3] Enforcement Authority — Enforcement and debt facts
