Gas Installations for Tenants in Sweden
What applies to gas installations?
Gas installations in homes are subject to safety and professional installation requirements. According to the Land Code (Jordabalken, 1970:994), Chapter 12 the responsibility for the apartment's condition and maintenance can affect who must remedy defects.[1] Normally the landlord is responsible for fixed installations and major repairs, while the tenant is responsible for ongoing supervision and minor measures.
Landlord responsibility
The landlord must ensure that gas installations are safe, that installations are certified and that repairs are carried out by qualified professionals. If defects are discovered, the landlord must remedy them within a reasonable time.
Tenant responsibility
As a tenant you should report faults, follow safety instructions and not carry out work you lack the competence for. Save communications and receipts as evidence if needed.
If you detect the smell of gas or a leak
- Call 112 in immediate danger.
- Turn off the gas and ventilate the home if it is safe to do so.
- Alert or contact the landlord and describe the problem clearly.
- Document the smell, time and take photos if possible.
- Order a certified professional for inspection and repair.
When the landlord does not act
If the landlord does not remedy dangerous gas defects you can request action in writing and save evidence. If nothing happens you can apply for assistance from the Rent Tribunal for adjudication of disputes about the apartment's condition.[2] In some cases the matter can later be forwarded to the Enforcement Authority for enforcement.[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is responsible for gas installations in my apartment?
- As a rule the landlord is responsible for fixed installations and major repairs. Contact the landlord and document the problem.
- What should I do if I smell gas?
- If you smell gas: leave the residence, call 112 in case of danger, inform the landlord and document the incident.
- Can I withhold rent if gas installations are dangerous?
- Withholding rent is a legal measure that should be handled carefully. Contact the Rent Tribunal for advice before you act.
How to
- Call 112 or emergency number in immediate danger.
- Inform the landlord in writing and orally about the problem.
- Document times, communications and photograph damage or signs of leakage.
- If the problem persists, submit an application to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication.
Help and Support / Resources
- Riksdagen – The Land Code (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
- Domstol.se – Rent Tribunal information and e-services
- Enforcement Authority – Enforcement and debt collection
