Challenge Viewings as a Tenant in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, viewings in your home can feel intrusive. This article explains how you can challenge or appeal viewings, what rights you have regarding privacy and key handling, and when to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. We cover reasons that may make a viewing inappropriate, how to document problems, and practical steps to demand that the landlord follows the law. The language is simple and suited for those without legal background, with advice on how to communicate with the landlord and which formal applications may be relevant. The goal is to provide clear tools to defend your rights as a tenant in Sweden.
What can you challenge?
You can question viewings that occur without reasonable cause, are not covered by the tenancy agreement, or repeatedly invade your privacy. If viewings prevent you from living normally or cause damage, there may be grounds to challenge them. Reasons for challenging should preferably be documented in writing with time stamps.
Practical documentation steps
Good documentation strengthens your position if you need to appeal. The following points show what is important to collect.
- Note the date and time of each viewing and who was present.
- Keep all written communication with the landlord, such as texts and emails.
- Take photos or videos if the viewing causes damage or disturbance in the home.
- Request written information about why the viewing will be held and who is responsible for key handling.
When to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority
If you cannot reach an agreement with the landlord, the Rent Tribunal can review the dispute or an application regarding the tenancy. Specific applications and forms are used to request review or to appeal a decision. If the dispute concerns payment claims or eviction, the Enforcement Authority may become involved after a court decision.[1][2][3]
Communicate with the landlord
Always try to resolve the situation first through clear written communication. Explain why the viewing is problematic, suggest alternative times or conditions, and request a written response. If the landlord does not respond or refuses reasonable proposals, the next step is to gather evidence and consider formal review.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord show the apartment without my consent?
- The landlord normally needs a reasonable cause and must respect your privacy; good practice and the tenancy agreement matter, and you can challenge repeated or inappropriate viewings.
- What evidence is needed to appeal a viewing?
- Written communication, dates and times, witness statements, and photos or videos showing disturbances or damage strengthen your case.
- Which authority handles disputes between tenant and landlord?
- The Rent Tribunal usually reviews tenancy disputes, while the Enforcement Authority can be involved in enforcing decisions.
How to
- Document the viewing by noting details and collecting messages and evidence.
- Try to reach a written agreement with the landlord on the time or form of viewings.
- If no solution is found, apply for review at the Rent Tribunal with relevant attachments.
- Follow the authority's instructions and submit evidence on time.
- Contact the Enforcement Authority for information on process and deadlines if enforcement or eviction occurs.
Help and Support / Resources
- Jordabalken (Chapter 12)
- Rent Tribunal information - domstol.se
- Enforcement Authority - kronofogden.se
