Documents for Personal Use: Tenant Rights in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, questions can arise when a landlord uses or requests documents related to your home or personal belongings. This guide explains what counts as documents for personal use, the rights and protections tenants have under the tenancy laws and the Swedish Code of Statutes, and how to document and respond if you suspect improper use. You will get concrete steps to request explanations, protect evidence, contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority, and what deadlines are important to know. The text is written to be easy to follow even if you are not a lawyer, and provides practical advice to preserve your security in the tenancy.

What counts as "documents for personal use"?

Documents for personal use can be letters, contracts, receipts or other paperwork the landlord accesses or uses without clear permission. It can also involve digital information or keys related to your residence. The tenancy regulation is governed by the Swedish Code of Statutes, which affects tenants' rights regarding privacy and documentation.^[1]

The tenant's rights

As a tenant you have rights to privacy and protection against improper use of your documents. If you suspect the landlord is using your documents improperly, you can request a written explanation and ask for the return of originals. In some cases there may be a risk of termination, but tenants also have security of tenure and can turn to the Rent Tribunal for review.^[2]

Document and preserve evidence

Documentation strengthens your position in a dispute. Note what happened, keep copies of letters and receipts, and take photos of damage or the scene if needed. Always keep originals safe and hand over copies when possible.

• Lease agreement — keep a complete agreement and any addenda.
• Receipts — proof of rent and repair payments.
• Correspondence — letters and emails that show what was said or requested.

What to do if the landlord uses documents without permission

Follow these basic steps: request a written explanation, document the incident, and if the situation is not resolved, apply to the Rent Tribunal or contact the Enforcement Authority if necessary.^[2] If you receive a termination notice it is important to act quickly because deadlines can affect your rights.

Practical actions

• Request a written explanation from the landlord and save the response.
• Save copies and photographs of relevant documents and circumstances.
• Contact the Rent Tribunal for advice or to file a dispute application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord take my papers and use them?

No, the landlord normally may not use your documents without your consent if it violates your privacy or goes beyond what is necessary for the tenancy.

What do I do if I receive a termination after protesting?

Save all communication and contact the Rent Tribunal to review the validity of the termination and to protect your security of tenure.

When should I contact the Enforcement Authority?

If the Rent Tribunal has ruled in your favor and enforcement is needed, the Enforcement Authority can assist with collection or restoration.

How to

1. Gather all relevant documents and copies to support your case.
2. Write a brief written request to the landlord asking for an explanation and return of documents.
3. If no response, apply to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice with your documentation.
4. If needed, follow up with the Enforcement Authority for enforcement after a decision.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal — domstol.se
• Swedish Code of Statutes (1970:994), Chapter 12 — riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority — kronofogden.se

1. [1] Riksdagen — Swedish Code of Statutes (1970:994), Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal
3. [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and collection