Pets and house rules – appeal as a tenant in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may need to contest house rules or warnings related to pets. This guide explains step by step what you can do, what documentation helps, and when to contact the Rent Tribunal or seek legal help. We cover how the Swedish Land Code affects disputes about house rules, typical deadlines, and how evidence like photos, written complaints or witness statements can strengthen your case. The goal is to provide practical advice for appealing decisions or warnings while helping you understand both your rights and obligations as a tenant in Sweden.

What do house rules about pets mean?

House rules in a rental agreement can set limits on pets or require that you do not disturb neighbours. A rule that seems unreasonable or disproportionate can be contested, especially if it conflicts with mandatory provisions in the Land Code or lacks factual support.^[1]

When can you contest or appeal?

• If you receive a notice or written warning that you believe is incorrect or unclear.
• If you have documentation that contradicts allegations of disturbance, such as photos, videos or written statements.
• If the issue concerns maintenance or habitability and negatively affects the dwelling.
• If important deadlines have passed for action or responses from the landlord or authority.

How to prepare a contestation

Start by collecting all communication with the landlord, photo and video evidence and any witness statements. Write a brief chronological account of events and explain why a claim of disturbance is incorrect or exaggerated. If the landlord refers to house rules in the contract, check what the contract actually says and whether the rule is reasonable given the type of housing and circumstances.

Taking the case further: the Rent Tribunal

If you cannot agree, you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for review. Applications and process information are available at the courts’ website and certain e-services, where you often start with an application or form. The Rent Tribunal often reviews both contract interpretation and whether a house rule can be applied in a specific case.^[2]

Practical tips before applying

• Put together an evidence package with date-stamped photos, messages and witness statements.
• Write a clear application stating what action you want from the Rent Tribunal.
• Note deadlines for responding or supplementing documents.

FAQ

Can the landlord ban all pets in a rental agreement?

Not always; a total ban can be examined against the Land Code and a proportionality assessment in each specific case.

Do I have to move if neighbours complain about my pet?

No, moving is a last resort. First try dialogue, document and if necessary bring the case to the Rent Tribunal.

What evidence helps a successful contestation?

Date-stamped photos, recordings, witness statements and written communication are usually most useful.

How to

1. Collected evidence: gather photos, videos and written communication that support your version.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and request concrete justification or amendment of the rule.
3. If no reply or agreement, prepare an application to the Rent Tribunal with attachments.
4. Submit the application and follow the Rent Tribunal's instructions before any hearing or settlement.

Help and support

• Rent Tribunal and dispute information (Domstol.se)
• Land Code (Riksdagen.se) – Chapter 12, Tenancy
• Kronofogden – enforcement and payment matters

1. [1] Riksdagen.se
2. [2] Domstol.se