Can a Landlord Evict a Tenant for Debts in Sweden?

As a tenant, it can feel frightening if you fall behind on rent. In Sweden there are rules that govern when a landlord can request eviction, which warning steps typically occur and what rights you have as a leaseholder. This guide simply explains what can happen with debts, how the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) and the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) can be involved, and what concrete measures you can take to avoid termination or forced relocation. The aim is to give practical advice to tenants without legal background and show which documents and deadlines are important to keep track of in Sweden. Always document payments and keep receipts. Contact the landlord or the Rent Tribunal early for advice.

What can lead to eviction?

Several situations can cause a landlord to take action. The most common debt-related reasons are:

• Missed rent payments for several months.
• Large accumulated debt that is not settled after reminders.
• Agreed payment plans that are not followed over time.

What must the landlord do?

A landlord cannot simply evict a tenant. Common steps are:

• Send a written demand with clear information about unpaid rent and possible consequences.
• Terminate the lease according to the Swedish Land Code, chapter 12.^[1]
• Apply for eviction or enforcement via the Rent Tribunal and in some cases the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden).^[2]

Tenant rights and options

As a tenant you have the right to clear information. You can propose a repayment plan or seek help from the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement with the landlord. Documentation such as receipts, bank statements and correspondence is important in a dispute.

How to proceed

1. Gather documents: rent statements, receipts and messages.
2. Contact the landlord and try to negotiate a repayment plan.
3. Pay at least what you can and document each payment.
4. If you cannot reach a solution, apply for review or advice from the Rent Tribunal.^[2]
5. If enforcement begins: contact the Enforcement Authority for information on next steps.

Frequently asked questions

Can a landlord evict me without a court decision?

No. A landlord normally needs a termination and then legal review or enforcement via the Enforcement Authority to carry out an eviction.

What happens if I cannot pay all rent immediately?

Try to negotiate a repayment plan with the landlord and document the proposal in writing. If no agreement is reached, the Rent Tribunal can review the case.^[2]

Which law governs tenancy relations in eviction cases?

Rules on termination and eviction are found in the Swedish Land Code, chapter 12, which governs leases and terminations in Sweden.^[1]

Help and support / Resources

• Domstol.se – information about the Rent Tribunal and forms
• Kronofogden.se – enforcement and eviction information
• Riksdagen.se – Land Code (chapter 12)

1. [1] Riksdagen: Land Code (chapter 12)
2. [2] Domstol.se: Rent Tribunal information