Disturbances as Grounds — Tenant Rights in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, repeated disturbances from neighbours, noise or inadequate maintenance can affect your right to live safely. This guide explains which disturbances can constitute grounds to request repairs, rent reduction or, in some cases, termination of the tenancy. You will also get concrete advice on documentation, how to contact the landlord and when it may be appropriate to turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The language is clear and practical so that you as a tenant in Sweden can better understand your rights and the steps to take if problems are not fixed. The text also points to relevant legal provisions and how you can use evidence in a case.

What counts as a disturbance?

A disturbance is something that substantially reduces your ability to use the dwelling as intended. It can be repeated noise, unreasonable behaviour from neighbours or that necessary services are not performed by the landlord. The Code of Land (Jordabalken) regulates tenancy relationships and can in some cases give the tenant the right to remedies or compensation when housing standards are not maintained ^[1].

Common types of disturbances

• Noise from neighbours or common areas (noise).
• Insufficient heating or water (heating, water).
• Damp, mould or poor maintenance (mold, repair).
• Unauthorized entry or repeated trespass (entry).

What can you as a tenant do?

The first step is always to contact the landlord in writing and request that the problem be fixed. Describe the disturbance clearly, state dates and attach photos or audio recordings when possible. If the landlord does not act, you can apply for review by the Rent Tribunal or request a rent reduction.

• Contact the landlord in writing and request action (notice).
• Keep track of deadlines and follow up in writing (deadline).
• Request a rent reduction or compensation if the dwelling has deteriorated (rent).

When should you turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority?

If the landlord does not fix the problem, the Rent Tribunal can adjudicate disputes about rent, termination and maintenance deficiencies ^[2]. If a decision from the Rent Tribunal needs to be enforced, the Enforcement Authority may be relevant for enforcement and collection ^[3]. For smaller disputes, municipal consumer guidance or tenants' associations can also be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a reduced rent because of disturbances?

Yes, if the disturbances substantially reduce the value of the dwelling you may be entitled to a rent reduction; this is often reviewed by the Rent Tribunal.

Do I always have to contact the landlord first?

Yes, you should always request remedial action in writing from the landlord before you take the matter to the Rent Tribunal.

What documentation is needed for a complaint?

Dates, times, photos, audio recordings, witness statements and copies of written correspondence with the landlord are important documentation.

How to

1. Document the disturbance with date, time and photo or audio recording (record, photo).
2. Send a written complaint to the landlord and request action (notice).
3. If nothing happens, apply for review at the Rent Tribunal with your documentation (court).
4. Follow deadlines and save all receipts and responses (deadline).

Help and Support / Resources

• Domstol.se — Hyresnämnden
• Riksdagen.se — Code of Land (Jordabalken), 12 chap.
• Kronofogden.se — Enforcement and collection

1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken (1970:994), 12 kap.
2. [2] Domstol.se — Hyresnämnden
3. [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and collection