Tenant Rights for Subletting in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you may face questions about subletting, landlord consent and the limits that apply. This guide explains your rights and duties in clear language, shows when permission is needed, how to document agreements, and what you can do if a landlord refuses without valid grounds. We cover common situations such as roommates, short-term rentals and termination for breach of contract. The aim is to help you make secure decisions, understand the rules in the Swedish Land Code chapter 12[1], and know how to seek help via the Rent Tribunal[2] or the Enforcement Authority[3] in disputes. The text includes practical tips on evidence, written agreements, rent in subletting and how to apply to the Rent Tribunal using the correct forms.
What applies to subletting?
Subletting means that a tenant rents out all or part of their lease to another person. In many cases the landlord's consent is required. If the landlord refuses without reasonable cause you can have the matter reviewed by the Rent Tribunal. If parties do not comply with a decided solution the Enforcement Authority may be involved for enforcement.
When is consent needed?
- When you want to sublet, the landlord's consent is usually required.
- Obtain written approval and keep a copy of the decision.
- Keep evidence such as agreements, payments and photos of the property's condition.
- In a dispute: apply for review by the Rent Tribunal to get a legal assessment.
Consent and landlord requirements
The landlord can ask for information about who will live there and for how long, and reasonable contact details. A landlord may not refuse arbitrarily if there are valid reasons for the subletting, such as temporary studies or work elsewhere.
How to (Step-by-step)
- Check your lease and the landlord's rules before advertising or contacting potential subtenants.
- Request written consent from the landlord or prepare an application to the Rent Tribunal if needed.
- Draft a clear sublease describing rent, period and responsibility for damages.
- Document payments and key handover to avoid future disputes.
Practical advice for problems
If the landlord refuses despite reasonable grounds, gather documentation and contact the Rent Tribunal to learn how to submit an application. For unpaid rent or eviction, the Enforcement Authority may become involved to enforce decisions. Also note that short-term platform rentals often have special rules.
FAQ
- Do I need landlord permission to sublet?
- In most cases yes. The landlord's consent is required unless otherwise stated in the lease or legislation.
- What if the landlord says no?
- You can have the matter reviewed by the Rent Tribunal which may grant permission without the landlord's consent in certain circumstances.
- What evidence should I keep?
- Keep written consent, payment records, copies of agreements and photos of the property condition.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal: applications and forms
- Land Code (Chapter 12) - Riksdagen
- Enforcement Authority: information and enforcement
