Move-in Inspection with Photos – Tenant Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to understand how a move-in inspection works and what rights you have if you want to dispute remarks based on photos. This guide explains how to document damage, which deadlines often apply and which formal steps can lead to an appeal or a review at the Rent Tribunal. The information aims to provide concrete advice to protect your deposit and avoid incorrect cost deductions. Read each section carefully and gather evidence before you act.
What is a move-in inspection?
A move-in inspection documents the condition of the residence at the handover of keys. The inspection report and photos are often used in disputes about damage or cleaning after moving out. The Swedish Land Code (Jordabalken), chapter 12, governs tenancy relationships and can be guiding in disputes.[1]
What should you document?
Documentation gives you better chances to dispute claims. Prioritize clear date-stamped photos, short descriptions and any receipts for repairs or cleaning.
- Photos from multiple angles with date stamps.
- A list of damages with short descriptions and locations.
- Dates for handover and when photos were taken.
- Receipts for any professional cleaning or repairs.
How to dispute or appeal an inspection?
If you believe the inspection report or photos are incorrect, start by contacting the landlord in writing and attach your documentation. Ask for an explanation and propose a meeting or a joint re-inspection of the apartment.
If no solution is reached, you can apply for a review at the Rent Tribunal. Formal applications use specific forms and rules for deadlines available via the court services.[2]
In cases of unpaid claims or judgments leading to enforcement, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may become relevant. Use the agencies' guidance for next steps.[3]
Frequently asked questions
- How quickly must I dispute an inspection remark?
- Contact the landlord in writing as soon as possible and gather documentation; exact deadlines may vary and should be checked in your contract and with the Rent Tribunal.
- Can the landlord deduct money from my deposit based on photos?
- Yes, but deductions must be reasonable and based on evidence; if you dispute the deduction, the case can be reviewed by the Rent Tribunal.
- Do I need a lawyer to appeal?
- You can often handle simpler disputes yourself, but for larger claims legal advice can be helpful.
How to
- Immediately take clear photos with dates of all noted areas.
- Save and organize all communication and receipts chronologically.
- Send a written dispute to the landlord with attachments and request a joint inspection.
- If no solution is reached, apply to the Rent Tribunal and attach your documentation.
Key advice
- Be clear and factual in all written communication.
- Keep photos and receipts for at least one year after moving out.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal and information via Domstol.se
- Read the Land Code (chapter 12) on Riksdagen.se
- Enforcement Authority: guidance on enforcement and collection
