Emergency Exits for Tenants in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to know your rights and responsibilities regarding emergency exits and signage. Approved escape routes, clear emergency lighting and correct signage reduce risks in case of fire or other danger. This guide explains who is responsible for keeping routes clear, how to document defects and what steps you can take if repairs are delayed. We cover practical checks, how to report problems in writing to the landlord and when it is appropriate to seek help from authorities in Sweden. The aim is to give concrete advice that helps you act safely and securely in your tenancy. Read on for practical steps.

Why emergency exits and signage matter

Clear escape routes and proper signage save lives in fires and other emergencies. In Sweden, tenancy relationships and certain requirements are governed by legislation such as the Jordabalken, Chapter 12.^[1] This means that both the building condition and signage can affect tenant safety.

Who is responsible for what?

• The landlord is responsible for ensuring the building meets fire safety requirements, keeps escape routes clear and ensures signage and emergency lighting work.
• The tenant must keep their apartment free from obstructions in stairwells and common areas and follow fire safety rules.
• Joint inspections may be required and documentation is important if defects occur.

Check signage and escape routes

Carry out simple daily or weekly checks to detect visible obstructions and incorrect signage. Follow a clear process: check, document, report.

• Verify that emergency exit signs are visible, correct and illuminated.
• Photograph obstructions or broken signs as evidence.
• Report broken emergency lighting or blocked routes to the landlord immediately.

What to do about defects

If you find defects, begin by informing the landlord in writing and give a reasonable deadline for repair. If problems persist, the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) can review the case and may order repairs or rent reductions.^[2] In cases requiring enforcement, such as eviction or debt collection, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) is responsible.^[3]

1. Send a written notification to the landlord with a clear description, dates and photos.
2. Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to fix the issue and note the start date.
3. If no action is taken, seek help from the Rent Tribunal for review or mediation. ^[2]
4. If enforcement is needed, contact the Enforcement Authority for further measures. ^[3]

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if an emergency exit is blocked?

Document the blockage with photos, notify the landlord in writing and request repair. Contact the Rent Tribunal if nothing happens. ^[2]

Can a landlord lock emergency exits?

No, emergency exits must not be permanently locked or blocked as this endangers safety according to applicable rules. ^[1]

Who pays for repair of emergency lighting?

The landlord is usually responsible for the building's technical equipment, but check your lease and document defects to demand action.

How to

1. Inspect and document the situation with dates and photos.
2. Send a written fault report to the landlord requesting repairs.
3. Set a reasonable deadline and note when it begins to apply.
4. Apply to the Rent Tribunal for review if the landlord does not act. ^[2]
5. For enforcement, contact the Enforcement Authority. ^[3]

Help and support

• Riksdag — Legislation (Jordabalken Chapter 12)
• Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal information and e-services
• Enforcement Authority — Enforcement and debt collection

1. [1] Riksdag — Jordabalken (Chapter 12)
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal information and e-services
3. [3] Enforcement Authority — Enforcement and debt collection