Owner's Use: When Can a Landlord Evict a Tenant in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, it can be worrying if the landlord says the dwelling is needed for owner use. This guide explains what "owner's use" means, which formal requirements apply under Swedish law and what rights and protections tenants have. You will get practical advice on how to document the situation, the time limits that apply and how to seek help from the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority if disputes arise. The text uses plain language and steps you can follow if you want to contest a termination or prepare for a possible move.
What does "owner's use" mean?
"Owner's use" means that the landlord or a relative intends to use the dwelling themselves, for example by moving in or living there for an extended period. For a termination on these grounds to be valid, the landlord normally needs to show a real need and follow the formal rules in the Tenancy chapter of the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken).[1]
When can the landlord terminate for owner's use?
- The landlord or a close relative plans to move into the dwelling.
- The termination must be given in writing and state the reasons in a formal notice.
- The landlord must respect a reasonable notice period before moving in.
- The tenant may contest the termination and have the matter reviewed by the Rent Tribunal.
- Financial claims or damages may arise in case of an incorrect termination.
What can you do as a tenant?
- Save all communication and document events in writing and with photos.
- Note dates and deadlines in the termination and act before they expire.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal for review and use the correct form when applying.[2]
- Prepare evidence such as the tenancy agreement, receipts, photos and messages.
- Seek legal advice or support from a tenants' association if you are unsure.
Practical steps if you want to contest a termination
If you believe the termination is incorrect, you can request a review by the Rent Tribunal. Such an application should include a clear account of why you consider the termination invalid, copies of contracts and other documentation and, in some cases, a request to remain until the matter is decided.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is "owner's use"?
- "Owner's use" means that the landlord or a relative intends to use the dwelling themselves, for example by moving in; the law's criteria are set out in the Tenancy chapter of the Code of Land.[1]
- Can I contest the termination?
- Yes. You can apply for review at the Rent Tribunal, which examines whether the termination is objectively justified.[2]
- What happens if I do not move out?
- If you do not move out voluntarily, the landlord can request enforcement via the Enforcement Authority after a legal decision.[3]
How to
- Read the termination carefully and note dates, reasons and the last day to act.
- Save all communication, take photographs and gather the tenancy agreement and receipts.
- Send a formal written reply requesting clarification and possibly contesting the termination.
- Apply for review by the Rent Tribunal if you want the termination reviewed.
- In case of decisions and possible enforcement, contact the Enforcement Authority or legal counsel for further action.
Key takeaways
- Know your rights and always check the reasons in the termination.
- Document everything in writing and collect evidence before any review.
- Seek review at the Rent Tribunal if you consider the termination incorrect.
