Rent Tribunal: What Tenants Should Do in Sweden

What happens at the Rent Tribunal?

The Rent Tribunal decides disputes between tenant and landlord, for example about rents, terminations or maintenance issues. Cases are handled via the Courts administration and information about e‑services and application forms is available from the Courts administration^[1]. The process follows rules in the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12 (Rent), which describe rights and obligations for the parties^[2].

• The application is submitted (form)
• Replies and evidence exchange (evidence)
• Preparation and oral hearing (hearing)
• Judgment and possible enforcement measures (court)

Preparation and evidence

Preparing your case is important. The Rent Tribunal assesses what has been shown with evidence and written documentation. Have clear receipts, photos and any written correspondence ready. If it concerns maintenance or repairs, it is helpful to show when you reported the defect and whether the landlord has addressed the issue.

• Keep rent statements and receipts (rent)
• Take photos and document damage (evidence)
• Make a timeline of events (time)
• Contact advice or a tenants' association for guidance (contact)

After judgment and enforcement

If the Rent Tribunal makes a decision, enforcement may be carried out by the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) if a party does not comply with the judgment. Information about enforcement and how the Enforcement Authority operates is available from the Enforcement Authority^[3]. In some cases the judgment may be appealed according to the stated rules and deadlines.

• Pay according to the judgment or appeal within the specified time (court)
• Seek advice to assess whether an appeal is appropriate (contact)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to bring a case to the Rent Tribunal?

Usually no fee is charged for common rent disputes, but check the current rules on the Courts administration website.

Which evidence is most important?

Receipts, photos, emails and a timeline of events are often the most useful.

How long does a process at the Rent Tribunal take?

The time varies depending on the complexity of the case and the tribunal's workload.

What happens if I lose the case?

You may in some cases appeal or have to comply with the judgment; enforcement can be carried out by the Enforcement Authority.

How to

1. Gather evidence: collect receipts, photos and correspondence (evidence).
2. Fill in the application: use the correct form and describe what you request (form).
3. Submit documents: send materials to the Rent Tribunal via the specified e‑service or by post (submit).
4. Attend the hearing: be prepared and present your evidence (hearing).

Key points

• Document everything in writing to support your version of events.
• Keep track of deadlines so you do not miss the chance to appeal.
• Seek advice early if you are unsure about your situation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Courts administration — information about the Rent Tribunal and e‑services
• Riksdag — legislation, Jordabalken chapter 12
• Enforcement Authority — enforcement and debt collection

1. [1] Domstol.se
2. [2] Riksdagen.se
3. [3] Kronofogden.se