Deadlines for Tenants to Report Discrimination in Sweden
As a tenant you may encounter discrimination when looking for housing — for example, when you are not contacted, denied a viewing or offered different terms. In Sweden there are time limits for reporting such behaviour depending on whether you turn to the Rent Tribunal, the Equality Ombudsman or the police. This guide explains typical time frames, which evidence matters and the steps you can take to protect your rights. The text uses plain language and gives practical advice on collecting documentation, submitting a complaint and what to expect in the process. We also go through common misunderstandings and give tips on when you should seek legal help or free advice.
What counts as discrimination when searching for housing?
Discrimination can include being denied contact or a viewing, being offered worse terms or receiving derogatory comments because of gender, ethnicity, disability or religion. In rental matters, rent setting and selection criteria also interact with tenancy law.[2]
Deadlines — when should you act?
- Report to the Rent Tribunal promptly when a dispute over contract or terms arises (within).
- Report to the Equality Ombudsman as soon as possible after the incident because long delays can affect investigations (within).
- Report to the police if you have been threatened or the discrimination also constitutes a crime; do this immediately (within).
What documentation helps?
- Save messages, texts, emails and advertisement communications (evidence).
- Take screenshots or photos of ads and conversations (evidence).
- Write a chronological event log with dates, times and witnesses (evidence).
What happens after you have filed a complaint?
When you submit a complaint the authority assesses whether the case can be taken up. For tenancy matters the Rent Tribunal often uses written applications and may call hearings or give recommendations. For discrimination cases the Equality Ombudsman may start an investigation or represent the complainant. Contact the relevant authority for guidance on forms and the process.[1]
Practical advice before and during the complaint
- Check which forms are required for the Rent Tribunal or the EO and keep copies (form).
- Organise evidence in chronological order and label each file with the date (evidence).
- Seek advice from tenant associations or legal aid before submitting (contact).
FAQ
- How quickly must I report discrimination?
- The timeframe depends on which authority you turn to; report as soon as possible and check specific requirements with the Rent Tribunal or the EO.[1]
- Can I get legal aid as a tenant?
- Yes, in some cases you may be eligible for legal aid or free advice from tenant associations and legal aid authorities depending on your circumstances.
- What if the case concerns eviction or payment problems?
- For enforcement of decisions or eviction the Enforcement Authority may become involved; seek advice quickly and follow the stated deadlines.[3]
How to
- Collect evidence: save messages, photographs and dates (form).
- Contact advice services or tenant association to review your case (form).
- Complete and submit the correct application forms to the Rent Tribunal or file a complaint with the Equality Ombudsman (form).
- Follow up the case, answer authority questions and attend any hearings (form).
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal on Domstol.se
- Legislation (Jordabalken) on Riksdagen.se
- Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden)
