Maintenance & Repairs: Tenant Rights in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you have the right to a home that is safe and fully usable. This article explains what maintenance and repair obligations mean, who is responsible for different types of faults, how you as a tenant can request repairs and which deadlines and evidence requirements often apply. We go through practical steps to document damage, communicate in writing with the landlord and when it is appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) or the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden). The text is written to be clear and useful without legal background so that you can act confidently when problems arise in your tenancy. You will also find concrete templates and advice on documentation to support your case. Read on for step-by-step instructions.
What does the maintenance obligation mean?
The maintenance obligation means that the dwelling must be kept in a condition that makes it usable for its intended purpose. In practice this means that key functions such as heating, water, electricity and drainage must work. The Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) regulates many basic obligations for landlords and tenants regarding housing standards and repairs.[1]
Who is responsible for what?
- The landlord is responsible for major repairs and structural defects.
- The tenant is responsible for damage caused by negligence or their own actions.
- Small maintenance tasks and routine cleaning may be included in the tenant's duties under the agreement.
How to document and request repairs
Start by describing the defect clearly in writing and state when it was discovered. Request written confirmation from the landlord and set reasonable deadlines for repair. If the issue is disputed, the Rent Tribunal can review the case and provide recommendations or decisions.[2]
- Contact the landlord in writing and keep copies of messages.
- Photograph damages, note dates and collect receipts or prior communication.
- Send a formal request for repair with a suggested reasonable deadline.
When is the case escalated?
If the landlord does not fix a serious defect you can apply to the Rent Tribunal to obtain a review or decision. If a decision needs enforcement, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may be involved to carry out actions or collections.[2][3]
FAQ
- Who pays for appliance repairs?
- The landlord usually pays for appliances if the fault is not caused by the tenant.
- How long does the landlord have to fix urgent faults?
- Urgent faults should be fixed immediately or within a reasonable time depending on the nature of the damage.
- What do I do if the landlord does not respond?
- Document contacts, send a formal request and contact the Rent Tribunal if necessary.
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing and describe the defect.
- Photograph the damage and save dates and any receipts.
- Submit a formal application to the Rent Tribunal if the issue is not resolved.
- If a decision is enforced, contact the Enforcement Authority for execution.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Jordabalken (12 kap.) - riksdagen.se
- [2] Rent Tribunal & services - domstol.se
- [3] Enforcement and collection - kronofogden.se
