Can Landlord Enter? Tenant Rights in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden it is important to know when a landlord has the right to enter your apartment and which common mistakes can jeopardize your rights. This guide explains in plain language the rules on entry, maintenance and repairs, what is required of both tenant and landlord, and which documents and deadlines matter in a dispute. You get practical advice on how to document damage, request necessary repairs and when to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The aim is to give clear steps that help you protect your housing situation without legal background. The text also covers how to communicate in writing with the landlord and when it is time to seek legal help.
When can the landlord enter?
The rules on the landlord's access are governed by the Tenancy Chapter and case law from the Rent Tribunal [1][2]. In general, consent from the tenant or a clear reason is required, for example imminent danger or agreed repairs. The landlord usually must give notice and planned inspections or repairs should be announced in advance.
- The landlord lacks written consent for a planned visit.
- The landlord claims repairs are urgent without explaining why.
- The tenant does not document damages or completed repairs.
- Missed deadlines for responses or complaints by the tenant.
- No application to the Rent Tribunal in prolonged disputes.
What to do if the landlord breaks the rules?
If the landlord enters without valid reason or fails to perform necessary repairs, document the incident carefully and notify the landlord in writing with a demand for action. State time, what happened and attach photos. If the situation is not resolved you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication or seek assistance with enforcement via the Enforcement Authority [2][3].
Common mistakes
- Accepting that the landlord enters without asking for clear explanation or written consent.
- Assuming verbal promises about repairs are sufficient without written confirmation.
- Not collecting photos, dates and witness statements for damages or unlawful entry.
- Ignoring deadlines to complain or reply to demands.
- Waiting too long to contact the Rent Tribunal for serious disputes.
FAQ
- Can the landlord enter to inspect the apartment without notice?
- No, the landlord should normally give notice and obtain consent for non-urgent visits unless otherwise agreed.
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- An emergency is when there is immediate danger to life, health or severe damage, such as a gas leak or major water leak.
- How should I document a dispute about entry or missed repairs?
- Take photos, save all messages, note dates and times and ask for written replies from the landlord.
How-To
- Document the problem with photos, date and a short description.
- Send a written request for action to the landlord and keep a copy.
- If nothing happens, apply to the Rent Tribunal to have the case reviewed.
- Keep all documents and follow up with the Enforcement Authority if enforcement is needed.
Key points
- Documentation is often decisive in disputes.
- The landlord normally needs notice and consent for non-urgent visits.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Tenancy law (Chapter 12) - riksdagen.se
- [2] Rent Tribunal and forms - domstol.se
- [3] Enforcement Authority - kronofogden.se
