Move-in inspection for tenants in Sweden

Tenant termination (move-out, keys, cleaning) 2 min read · published September 11, 2025
Move-in inspection is an important opportunity for tenants in Sweden to document the condition of the home and protect their deposit. Take your time during handover, photograph every room from several angles and save date-stamped files in protected folders or cloud services. Review inventories and note pre-existing damage with clear notes on location and size so it is easy to distinguish new damage from old. Keep receipts for any repairs or purchases. If anything is unclear — contact the landlord in writing and note who you spoke to and when. This guide explains step by step what you should do at a move-in inspection in Sweden.[1]

What to do before the inspection

Before the inspection: check the agreement, the inventory list and book a time with the landlord or the person who will carry out the inspection. Also prepare documentation and a charged camera or phone.

  • Photograph all rooms and corners from multiple angles.
  • Arrive in good time and allow enough time for the walkthrough.
  • Make sure you and the landlord agree on the condition and number of keys.
  • Keep receipts for purchases or repairs related to the dwelling.
Save all photos with date and location.

During the inspection

Go through each room together, point out damage and note comments in the inspection report. Ask for a copy or a photographic review of the report and do not sign anything you do not agree with.

  • Note continuously which repairs need to be made.
  • Record video or take extra photos for additional evidence.
  • Sign the report only if the information is correct.
Avoid signing if the report contains incorrect information.

After the inspection

Afterwards: send a copy of your photos and notes to the landlord, keep everything for at least one year and note if the landlord does not remedy defects within a reasonable time. In case of dispute, the Rent Tribunal can examine the matter.[2]

  • Send written confirmation of what was documented.
  • Report serious defects within a reasonable time to preserve your rights.
  • If the parties do not agree, you can apply to the Rent Tribunal.[2]
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in a dispute.

FAQ

What should I photograph at a move-in inspection?
Photograph floors, walls, windows, appliances, locks and any visible damage from multiple angles.
Do I need to sign a report immediately?
Review the report carefully and avoid signing if it contains inaccuracies.
What happens if the landlord does not fix defects?
You can report or apply for review at the Rent Tribunal or get help from the Enforcement Authority for enforcement.[3]

How to

  1. Prepare documents: lease, inventory list and charged camera.
  2. Systematically photograph each surface and damage with date stamp.
  3. Carry out the walkthrough together with the landlord and note deviations in the report.
  4. Keep copies and send documentation to the landlord.
  5. If there is disagreement, contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance.[2]

Help and support / Resources


  1. [1] Land Code (1970:994), Chapter 12 (Tenancy)
  2. [2] Rent Tribunal - information and e-services
  3. [3] Enforcement Authority - enforcement and collection
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Sweden

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.