Evidence for Tenants in Sweden: Photos, Logs, Witnesses

As a tenant in Sweden, having clear evidence can be decisive when you request repairs, contest rent increases or defend against eviction. This guide plainly shows what counts as evidence — photographs, written logs, receipts and witness statements — and how to collect, organize and store them so they hold up in a dispute or at the rent tribunal. We explain how to document defects, timestamp events, ask witnesses to confirm facts and when to contact your landlord or authorities. The text is written for ordinary tenants without legal background and gives practical steps to follow in Sweden. Follow the advice to strengthen your position.

What counts as evidence?

Evidence can be many things: photos of damage, video clips, a running fault and contact log, receipts for repairs or purchases, and written communication with the landlord. Witness statements from neighbors or visitors can also be valuable. The primary thing is to show what actually happened and when, which can be relevant under the Swedish Code of Statutes, Chapter 12 on rent in disputes.^[1]

• Photos and videos clearly showing the damage or defect.
• Written log that records dates and times of events or faults.
• Receipts for repairs, purchases or expenses related to the home.
• Saved emails and SMS showing communication with the landlord.
• Witness statements from neighbors or guests who saw or heard what happened.

How to store and organize evidence

Organize evidence chronologically and back it up digitally. Keep original files and label photos with place and date. Note who you spoke to, what was said and at what times. If problems repeat, keep adding entries so patterns become clear.

• Timestamp photos and log entries with date and time.
• Save receipts and label them with what they relate to.
• Keep copies of all written notices and communications.
• Note phone calls: date, time and what was discussed.

When to contact the rent tribunal or enforcement authority

If you cannot reach an agreement with the landlord, the rent tribunal can adjudicate disputes about rent, repairs and terminations.^[2] If an enforcement of a decision is needed, the Swedish Enforcement Authority may become relevant.^[3] In some cases, the Code of Statutes (Chapter 12) governs what rights and obligations exist for tenants and landlords.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

Which photos are sufficient as evidence?

Sharp images that clearly show the damage and, if possible, an object for scale as well as date and time are best.

Can a witness replace a written log?

Witness statements are valuable but work best as a complement to written documentation; written logs are often easier to verify over time.

When should I contact the rent tribunal?

Contact the rent tribunal if you cannot reach a resolution with the landlord or if you need a formal decision in a dispute.

How-To

1. Take clear photos and record video if needed, keep the originals.
2. Keep a simple diary or log with date, time and what happened.
3. Save receipts, invoices and screenshots of messages.
4. Send a written fault report to the landlord and keep a copy.
5. If you cannot resolve the matter, consider contacting the rent tribunal for review.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Domstol.se — Rent tribunal and e-services
• [2] Riksdagen.se — Code of Statutes (rental rules)
• [3] Kronofogden.se — Enforcement and debt collection

1. [1] Riksdagen — Code of Statutes (1970:994), Chapter 12.
2. [2] Domstol — Rent tribunal and e-services
3. [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and debt collection