Housing Allowance in Sweden: Tenant Rights
As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to understand both the conditions for housing allowance and your basic rights regarding rent, repairs and termination. This guide explains who can receive housing allowance, how the amount is calculated and which documents you should have when you apply. We also cover what you can do if the landlord raises the rent, neglects repairs or attempts to terminate the agreement. The goal is to give clear, practical steps and contact points so you can act quickly and securely in Sweden.
What does housing allowance cover?
Housing allowance is financial support that can help tenants with low incomes pay rent. Rules on rent and certain standards of reasonableness are found in the Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12.[1] The amount is affected by income, household composition and housing costs.
Who can receive housing allowance?
- People with low income or young adults moving out on their own.
- Families with children and pensioners with low pensions.
- Those who pay reasonable rent but have limited resources.
How is the amount calculated?
The amount is based on the household's total income and rent cost. There are no fixed numbers that apply to everyone; Försäkringskassan calculates the support based on your information when applying. Keep pay slips and rent receipts to simplify the calculation.
Practical steps before applying
Collect documents that prove your income, housing cost and who lives in the household. If you lack papers, ask the landlord or employer for certificates in good time.
- Rental agreement or rent receipts showing your monthly rent.
- Pay slips or pension certificates.
- Bank statements showing payments and any other income.
- ID documents and personal identity numbers for all household members.
Tenant rights in the apartment
As a tenant you have the right to a dwelling that is in good condition. The landlord is normally responsible for major repairs and ensuring the dwelling is habitable. If necessary repairs are neglected, you as a tenant can demand action, withhold rent in certain cases, or request a rent reduction through the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden).[2]
What to do about rent increases or termination
- Request a written explanation for the rent increase and the landlord's grounds.
- If you disagree, contact the Rent Tribunal for assessment of reasonableness.
- For eviction or payment claims, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may become involved for enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I apply for housing allowance?
- You usually apply via Försäkringskassan with information about income, rent and household composition.
- What do I do if the landlord does not fix important faults?
- Remind in writing, document the defects with photos and dates, and if nothing happens you can bring the matter to the Rent Tribunal for review.
- Can I keep my apartment if I have payment difficulties?
- Communicate with the landlord, seek financial support such as housing allowance and contact authorities early to avoid eviction.
How to
- Gather necessary documents: rental agreement, income statements and ID.
- Submit an application to Försäkringskassan or use their e-service for housing allowance.
- If a dispute about rent or repairs arises, file an application with the Rent Tribunal for review.
- Keep all correspondence and documentation if you need to pursue the case further.
