Evidence against tenants in Sweden: photos, logs, witnesses

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to know what types of evidence a landlord can use if a dispute arises. Photos, ongoing logs, witness statements and other documentation can affect how the Rent Tribunal assesses a case^[1], but rules on privacy, intrusion and evidential weight vary. This guide explains what counts as valid evidence, how you can document damages and defects, when the landlord needs permission to inspect and what options you have to challenge incorrect claims. You will also get concrete advice on saving receipts, sending written notices and contacting the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority if needed.

What counts as evidence?

Landlords can use different types of evidence in a dispute. Common examples include:

• Photo: Multiple clear photos that show damages or defects.
• Video: Short video showing the problem in real time.
• Log: Timestamped messages or diary notes that show the sequence of events.
• Witness statements: Named witnesses who can describe what they saw or heard.
• Receipts and documents: Invoices, receipts or correspondence that show costs or agreements.

How are different types of evidence weighed?

The evidential weight depends on relevance, credibility and whether the evidence was obtained lawfully under the Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12^[2]. The Rent Tribunal evaluates the whole picture, and documentation that shows time, context and consequence is often stronger. If a landlord claims damage, you should be able to provide counterevidence or complementary information.

What can the landlord not do?

The landlord may not enter your home without permission, violate your personal privacy or use information that was collected unlawfully. Reasonable notice is usually required before inspections, and spontaneous monitoring of private areas can be prohibited.

What should I do as a tenant?

• Keep receipts and document (receipt) every expense or repair you pay for yourself.
• Send a written notice (application) to the landlord and keep a copy of the communication.
• Contact the Rent Tribunal for advice or review if you cannot reach an agreement^[1].
• If necessary, follow up with the Enforcement Authority for execution of a decision^[3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord use photos as evidence?

Yes, if the photos are relevant and capture factual conditions without routinely violating your privacy. Always explain the context of images in your own documentation.

Does the landlord have to notify before an inspection?

In most cases the landlord should give reasonable notice and follow rules on inspections. Emergency situations can be exceptions, but open communication is recommended.

What if evidence is used incorrectly against me?

Save your own evidence, dispute inaccuracies in writing and consider applying to the Rent Tribunal for a review^[1].

How to

1. Take photos and video: Photograph from multiple angles and save original files with dates.
2. Keep a log: Note date, time and what happened in a simple incident log.
3. Send a written notice: Email or registered letter to the landlord and save proof of sending.
4. Apply to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach a solution^[1].
5. If needed, contact the Enforcement Authority for execution of a decision^[3].

Key takeaways

• Document time, date and circumstances for each incident.
• Keep all written communication with the landlord.
• Contact the Rent Tribunal before escalating to enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal at domstol.se
• Code of Land (Jordabalken) chapter 12 at riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden)

1. [1] Domstol.se: Rent Tribunal
2. [2] Riksdagen.se: Code of Land, chapter 12
3. [3] Kronofogden.se