Mold and Leaks: Tenant Rights in Sweden
What the law says
In Sweden tenancy relationships are regulated by the Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12, which states that the landlord is normally responsible for keeping the dwelling in a condition suitable for its intended purpose. [1] If defects such as leaks or mold occur, the landlord may be obliged to remedy them at no cost to the tenant, especially when damage is due to the condition of the building or lack of maintenance.
What you should do first as a tenant
Acting quickly and with documentation increases the chance of getting proper help. Follow these steps when you discover leaks or mold:
- Document the damage with photos and dates.
- Report the damage in writing to the landlord and keep a copy.
- Request that repairs be made within a reasonable time.
- Keep receipts if you have to pay for urgent measures yourself.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) in case of dispute for mediation or assessment.
When the landlord is responsible
The landlord is usually responsible when the moisture damage is due to the building's condition, insufficient ventilation or plumbing systems. If the damage has occurred through normal wear or lack of maintenance, it is the landlord's responsibility to pay for repairs and restore the dwelling.
When the tenant may be responsible
If the damage can be shown to be caused by the tenant's negligence, for example through incorrect ventilation or failure to follow wet room rules, the tenant may have to bear the costs. The assessment is made based on the circumstances in each individual case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for repairs in case of mold?
- If mold is due to the building's condition or lack of maintenance it is normally the landlord who pays. If the tenant caused the damage by negligence the tenant may be liable to pay.
- Can I withhold rent if nothing happens?
- Withholding rent can be risky without legal support; contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance before withholding rent. You can also request a rent reduction if the dwelling is not fully usable.
- How quickly must the landlord fix a leak?
- The landlord should remedy serious moisture damage promptly. What is a reasonable time depends on the nature of the damage and the risk to health or further damage.
How to
- Write a formal fault report to the landlord with description, date and photos.
- Save all documentation: pictures, messages and receipts for any costs.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to fix the issue; state in your report within which timeframe you expect action.
- If no solution is reached, apply to the Rent Tribunal for resolution or mediation.
- If necessary, seek further help from the Enforcement Authority for enforcement if judgments or decisions are not followed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) and application information
- Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12, at Riksdagen
- Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) for enforcement and debt issues
