Can the Landlord Enter? Tenant Guide in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, the idea of a landlord entering your home can feel worrying. This guide explains when a landlord may legally do so, what rights you as a tenant have, requirements for information and how you should document the situation. We cover common reasons such as repairs, inspections or emergencies, outline applicable timeframes and show how you can act if your privacy or living standards are affected. The text is written to be practical and stepwise so you can easily find the right action, from talking to the landlord to contacting the Rent Tribunal or getting help via the Enforcement Authority. The guide also includes practical examples and links to official resources.

How can the landlord enter?

The basic rules for tenancy are found in the Land Code (Jordabalken) (1970:994), Chapter 12 (Leases).^[1] In short, consent or prior notice is normally required for non-urgent entry, but exceptions exist in cases of imminent danger, necessary repairs or where the lease agreement regulates the right to enter.

• Repairs (reparationer): the landlord may need to address urgent faults in the dwelling.
• Inspections (inspektioner/notice): planned checks should be notified in advance and justified.
• Emergency actions (akuta åtgärder/repairs): in case of water leaks or fire the landlord may enter without prior notice.
• Showings or access for re-rental (visning/showing/notice): advance information and often your consent are normally required.

What you can do

If you experience unauthorized entry or uncertainty about the reason, start by collecting evidence and communicating clearly with the landlord. Documentation and proper case handling improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

• Document the incident (dokumentera): take photos, note dates, times and any witnesses.
• Contact the landlord in writing (kontakta): request written information about time and reason and save all correspondence.
• Seek help from the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden/forms): apply for a review in case of dispute and attach your documentation.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

When can the landlord enter without asking?

The landlord generally may not enter without your consent, but exceptions exist for imminent danger or necessary repairs that cannot wait.

Can the landlord change the locks if I do not let them in?

The landlord normally may not change locks or prevent access without legal basis; enforcement may involve the Enforcement Authority.^[3]

What do I do if the landlord comes without notice?

Document the incident, contact the landlord in writing and consider reporting the matter to the Rent Tribunal for review.

How to

1. Document the incident: take photos and note dates, times and witnesses.
2. Contact the landlord in writing: request an explanation and a written statement.
3. Send an application to the Rent Tribunal: use the correct forms and attach all documentation.
4. For enforcement: contact the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) or legal advice for next steps.

Help and support

• HN forms and e-services on Domstol.se
• Kronofogden for enforcement and collection
• The Land Code on Riksdagen.se

1. [1] Riksdagen – Jordabalken (1970:994), 12 kap. (Hyra)
2. [2] Domstol.se – Hyresnämnden och blanketter
3. [3] Kronofogden.se – Verkställighet och råd