Fair Rent for Tenants in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you may need to know how to establish a fair rent, when rent increases are allowed and what obligations the landlord has for maintenance and repairs. This guide explains step by step what counts as a fair rent, how to gather evidence, the timelines and formalities for complaints, and when to turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The text uses plain language and concrete advice so you can more quickly assess your rights and act correctly if disputes or urgent defects occur in the home. Always save written communication, take photos of damage and note dates of calls or visits. If the landlord does not fix serious defects you can request a rent reduction or contact the Rent Tribunal for mediation and decision.
What does fair rent mean?
Fair rent concerns what is customary in the area and what is agreed in the lease. The Land Code provides basic rights and duties for tenancy relations and is often used as legal support in disputes [1].
When can rent be changed?
Rent can be changed in renegotiation, during major renovations or if the landlord and tenant agree on a new level. A rent increase must be objectively justified and follow applicable formal requirements.
- When the parties make a written agreement on a changed rent.
- During extensive standard-improving renovations that affect the utility value.
- When the landlord applies to the Rent Tribunal to determine a new rent level.
FAQ
- How is it determined whether rent is fair?
- Rent is assessed based on the utility value in the area, agreements and applicable legislation. You may need to compare similar apartments and use the Rent Tribunal for review [1].
- What should I do if there are serious defects in the apartment?
- Document damage with photos and written communication, request action from the landlord and consider contacting the Rent Tribunal for mediation or decision [2].
- Can the landlord evict me for unpaid rent?
- If rent is not paid the landlord may seek enforcement through the Enforcement Authority after legal proceedings. Contact early to avoid eviction and seek advice [3].
How to
- Read your lease and note what it says about rent, termination and maintenance responsibilities.
- Document issues and repairs: take photographs, keep receipts and record dates for every event.
- Contact the landlord in writing stating the remedy you request and give a reasonable deadline for action.
- If you do not reach a solution, submit an application to the Rent Tribunal for review and mediation.
Key takeaways
- Always document defects with photos and dates.
- Respect deadlines for responses and formal requirements in disputes.
- Seek help early from the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority when needed.
