Eviction Stay: Tenant Rights in Sweden

Maintenance & repair duties 3 min read · published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Sweden, facing eviction can be stressful and uncertain. This guide explains what an eviction stay means, the rights you have as a tenant, how much time you may be given to arrange payment or find alternate housing, and which authorities you can contact. We cover important deadlines, documentation you should gather, when you can apply for a stay with the Rent Tribunal and what happens if the case is referred to the Enforcement Authority. We also discuss how maintenance and repair obligations affect disputes about rent and habitability so you know when you can use defects as part of your defense.

What is a stay and when can it be granted?

A stay means a deadline extension to avoid immediate eviction, often to pay rent arrears or arrange alternative housing. Decisions on stays depend on your payment ability, prior cases and whether you have tried to negotiate with the landlord.

Keep all receipts and communication with the landlord as evidence.

Key rights and obligations

As a tenant you have the right to reasonable time to remedy a debt or move if you can show legitimate reasons. At the same time you must follow payment obligations under the lease and the Land Code (Chapter 12).[1] The landlord has maintenance and repair obligations to keep the dwelling habitable, which can affect rent disputes.[1]

Do not delay contacting the Rent Tribunal or seeking advice if you face eviction.

Practical steps to follow

  • Contact the landlord in writing and try to negotiate a repayment plan or a short stay.
  • Keep documentation: rent statements, receipts, emails and photos that prove your situation.
  • If negotiation fails, apply for review or a stay with the Rent Tribunal using their forms.[2]
  • Pay attention to deadlines in service and judgments; act within the specified days to avoid enforcement.
Documenting negotiation attempts improves your chances in a case.

What happens if the case proceeds?

If the Rent Tribunal or court rules on eviction the case often goes to the Enforcement Authority for execution. The Enforcement Authority can carry out distraint and eviction if decisions are not complied with.[3]

When can maintenance or repairs affect a case?

If the dwelling has serious defects, such as lack of heating or water leaks, this can influence claims for rent reduction and the ability to defend against eviction. Report defects in writing to the landlord and keep their responses.

The landlord's maintenance responsibility is set out in the Land Code and affects tenant rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a stay and a repayment plan?
A stay is an extension before enforcement while a repayment plan is an agreement on how the debt will be repaid over time.
Who decides on a stay?
The Rent Tribunal or court can decide on a stay; sometimes the landlord may also agree to a short stay without a legal decision.
Can I get legal aid or advice?
Yes, the municipal consumer guidance, tenant associations or lawyers can provide advice depending on your situation.

How-to

  1. Write down all relevant dates, amounts and evidence of your finances and any defects in the dwelling.
  2. Complete and send the correct application form to the Rent Tribunal or the designated authority, attaching copies of documents.
  3. Request a written stay and comply with the deadlines the authority provides for responses or supplements.
  4. If the matter goes to hearing or judgment, attend yourself or via a representative and present your documentation.

Key takeaways

  • You may have a right to a stay but must show reasons and documentation.
  • Maintenance defects can affect disputes about rent and eviction.
  • Seek advice early and contact the Rent Tribunal if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Land Code (Chapter 12) – riksdagen.se
  2. [2] Rent Tribunal and forms – domstol.se
  3. [3] Enforcement information – kronofogden.se

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Sweden

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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