Preparation for Tenants' Hearings in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may need to prepare for a hearing when you dispute claims or appeal a decision about rent, maintenance or termination. This text explains in plain terms what you should do: which documents matter most, how to collect evidence about repairs or defects, which deadlines apply and how to submit an application or response to the Rent Tribunal. We also touch on how the Enforcement Authority may become relevant in enforcement. The goal is to provide clear steps that reduce stress and increase the chances of a fair outcome without assuming legal expertise.

Common causes of disputes

Many disputes concern rent increases, lack of maintenance, theft, damage or termination. Documentation of maintenance, repair requests and contact with the landlord is often decisive. If the landlord does not fix serious defects you may need to dispute a rent claim or appeal a decision.

Choose and organise evidence

Start by collecting everything in writing: lease, emails, SMS, photos, receipts for repairs and fault reports. Note dates and what was said in calls. If there are logs from contractors or the property management system, these are especially useful.

• Lease agreement, amendments and inspection reports
• Photos with timestamps of damage or defects
• Receipts for repairs or purchases related to the dwelling
• Submitted fault reports and responses from the landlord

Formal steps: application and response

When a dispute is to be heard by the Rent Tribunal you often need to submit a written application or response. Use the specified forms and keep track of deadlines. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes about rent, termination and maintenance.^[2]

• Read the instructions for the correct form or e-service carefully
• Keep track of the final submission date so you do not lose the right to dispute
• Send copies of evidence, not originals

What you can request at the hearing

At the hearing you can request compensation, reduced rent, repair of defects or that a decision be changed. Be clear about the remedy you want and why it is reasonable. Repeated maintenance failures can justify rent reduction or repair orders.

Typical expectations at a hearing

Prepare a short fact sheet with dates, what happened and the remedy you seek. Be factual and state what has already been done to resolve the issue. Follow the Rent Tribunal's instructions before any oral hearing.

Frequently asked questions

How do I dispute a rent invoice or claim?

Start by contacting the landlord in writing, save responses and then submit a written dispute to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot agree.^[2]

Can I get a rent reduction for defects in the dwelling?

Yes, if the defect affects the habitability you can request a rent reduction. Document the defect and the date it was reported to the landlord.

What happens if I do not comply with a judgment or decision?

If a decision is not followed it can proceed to enforcement through the Enforcement Authority.^[3]

How to

1. Write a chronology with dates, contacts and what was said
2. Collect photographs and receipts as evidence
3. Complete and send the correct form to the Rent Tribunal or use their e-service^[2]
4. Observe deadlines and arrive prepared for any hearing

Key takeaways

• Documentation is often decisive for a successful outcome.
• Act within deadlines to preserve your rights.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal and forms (domstol.se)
• Jordabalken Chapter 12 (riksdagen.se)
• Enforcement information (kronofogden.se)

1. [1] riksdagen.se
2. [2] domstol.se
3. [3] kronofogden.se