Can a landlord evict a tenant in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, a termination from the landlord can feel unexpected and worrying. This guide plainly explains what is required for a termination to be valid, what rights you as a tenant have, and what time limits and opportunities for review exist. We describe the difference between termination due to unpaid rent, disturbances, or personal reasons, as well as rules about termination for renovation or repossession. You receive practical advice on how to document defects, when you need to contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) or the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) and how the law (Jordabalken) assesses validity in a Swedish rental relationship. The guide helps you act quickly and safely without legal expertise. It is intended to help you understand the process and which pieces of evidence are important if you want to contest the termination.

What applies to termination?

A termination from the landlord must have legal basis and be objectively justified. The Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) governs rental relationships and requires reasonableness and objectivity in terminations^[1]. In short: a landlord cannot terminate a lease arbitrarily.

Common reasons for termination

• Unpaid rent or repeated payment failures
• Disturbances that seriously affect neighbors or safety
• Repossession for own use or major renovations
• Termination for personal reasons, for example if the tenant has acted inappropriately

Notice periods and reasonableness

Deadlines depend on the type of lease and the reason for termination. For example, shorter notice periods may apply for breaches of the lease, but a termination must still be proportionate and follow legal requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What reasons can a landlord use to evict me?

The landlord may state reasons such as unpaid rent, serious disturbances, or a need to repossess the apartment for own use, but the reasons must be assessed as objective according to the law.

How long is the notice period?

The notice period varies depending on the nature of the tenancy agreement and the reason for termination; check your agreement and act quickly if you receive notice.

What should I do if I receive a termination I consider incorrect?

Gather evidence, write a formal response to the landlord, and consider applying to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) for review of the termination^[2].

How to

1. Collect documentation: rent statements, receipts, photos and communication with the landlord.
2. Respond in writing to the landlord and explain your position with dates and evidence.
3. Seek advice from tenant associations or other support bodies to assess your options.
4. If you cannot reach a resolution, apply for review at the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) with available evidence^[2].
5. If the landlord wins and you do not vacate, a decision can be enforced via the Enforcement Authority.

Key takeaways

• A termination must have objective grounds under the Jordabalken.
• Documentation and written communication are crucial in disputes.
• The Rent Tribunal is the correct body to review termination disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Riksdagen - Legislation and preparatory works
• Domstol.se - Rent Tribunal and forms
• Kronofogden - Enforcement and distraint

1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken 12 kap.
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and application forms