Move-in Inspection Documents for Tenants in Sweden

Moving in as a tenant means documenting the apartment's condition at handover. In Sweden it is important for both tenants and landlords to have clear documents, an inventory list and good photos that show any damage or wear. This guide explains which documents you should bring to the move-in inspection, how to take and organize photos, and how the documentation can protect your deposit and rights if disputes arise. The language is simple and aimed at tenants in Sweden; we show practical steps, examples of photo documentation and where to find official procedures and forms. Follow the advice to reduce the risk of disputes and prepare the documents mentioned below.

What to bring to the inspection

The following documents and evidence provide a clear picture of the apartment's condition at move-in. Bring both originals and copies where possible.

• Hyreskontrakt (rent contract) and inventory list
• Photos (photos) of every room with date and description
• Any receipts and documentation of repairs or prior faults (receipts)
• Key handover protocol and note of number of keys
• Forms or written agreements regarding responsibility for damage (forms)
• Contact details for the landlord, maintenance reporting and any witnesses

Why document the condition at move-in

Documentation protects both the tenant's and landlord's interests. It shows the apartment's condition at handover and reduces the risk of disagreement about who is responsible for damage or wear. According to the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) chapter 12, tenancy relations and the parties' obligations regarding the apartment's condition are regulated.^[1]

How to take photos and organize them

Photos should be clear, dated and systematically organized. Follow these simple steps to create usable photo documentation.

1. Take an overview photo of each room from the door for a general perspective.
2. Photograph details of damage, marks and wear with close-ups and a reference showing scale.
3. Save the date and time for each photo in the filename or in a separate log.
4. Collect photos in a folder (digital and/or print) together with the contract and inventory list.
5. Send a copy of the documentation to the landlord by email or another traceable method and save the sending receipt.

What to write in the inspection protocol

A protocol should be concise but complete: clear points for each room, notes on existing damage, date, signatures from both tenant and landlord, and attached photos or appendices that show the condition.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to take pictures at move-in?

Yes. Pictures provide concrete evidence of the apartment's condition and can be decisive in any disputes about the deposit or damage claims.^[2]

Which documents are sufficient as evidence?

The tenancy agreement, inventory list, photos with dates and receipts for prior repairs are strong evidence. Also save communication with the landlord.

What if the landlord does not accept the protocol?

Keep your documentation and contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) for advice or dispute resolution if you cannot agree.^[2]

How to (step-by-step)

1. Make a checklist of what you need (contract, inventory list, camera/phone).
2. Take overview and detail photos of each room and save them with dates in the filenames.
3. Write a simple protocol describing each noted defect or remark.
4. Review the protocol with the landlord and request a signature or send it in writing and request confirmation.
5. Save all communications and receipts; if necessary, the material can be used at the Rent Tribunal or enforced through the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden).^[3]

Key takeaways

• Document everything with both photos and written notes for clear evidence.
• Keep copies of contracts and protocols in multiple places.
• Contact the Rent Tribunal for questions about rights and dispute resolution.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken 12 kap. (Hyra)
• [2] Domstol.se — Hyresnämnden och blanketter
• [3] Kronofogden — Verkställighet och indrivning

1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken 12 kap. (Hyra)
2. [2] Domstol.se — Hyresnämnden och blanketter
3. [3] Kronofogden — Verkställighet och indrivning