Report Changes on Time — Tenant in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden it can be difficult to know exactly when and how to report changes in your home or request repairs. This article explains common mistakes tenants make — from failing to document damage to missing deadlines for fault reports or incorrectly assuming who is responsible for maintenance. You will get concrete steps for how to report problems, save evidence, communicate in writing with the landlord and when it is appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The goal is to give you confidence and clarity so you can assert your rights without legal jargon. The text contains practical examples, a checklist and advice to avoid costly disputes.
What applies for maintenance and repairs?
The landlord's and the tenant's responsibilities are regulated in the Land Code (1970:994) chapter 12.[1] In short, the landlord is usually responsible for permanent maintenance, while the tenant must take care of the apartment and report faults in time.
Common mistakes
- Missing deadlines (deadline) for fault reports or repairs.
- Poor documentation of damage or ongoing problems (evidence).
- Performing repairs yourself without the landlord's permission (repair).
- Misunderstandings about who should fill in forms or what evidence is required (form).
How to document problems
Follow simple routines to strengthen your position: report in writing, keep receipts and take dated photos. Communicate in writing when you speak with the landlord or contractors.
- Report in writing by email or letter and keep copies (form).
- Save photos and a logbook with dates for each incident (evidence).
- Request written cost estimates before repairs are carried out (repair).
- Follow up if nothing happens within a reasonable time (deadline).
When to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority?
If the landlord does not remedy serious faults or if tenancy disputes arise you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for review[2]. For enforcement of decisions or collection the Enforcement Authority is used[3].
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays for repairs of broken appliances?
- It depends on what is stated in the lease and whether the fault is due to normal wear or the tenant's fault.
- Do I have to allow inspection by the landlord?
- The landlord has the right to inspect for reasonable reasons and with notice, but intrusion should be done by agreement when possible.
- What happens if I do not report faults in time?
- If you do not report you may find it harder to get compensation or remedies later.
How to
- Write down the problem and send a formal report to the landlord (form).
- Save photos, receipts and communication as evidence (evidence).
- Give the landlord reasonable time to fix the fault before taking further action (deadline).
- If nothing helps, apply to the Rent Tribunal for review (court).
Key takeaways
- Documentation is crucial to protect your rights.
- Respect deadlines for fault reports and responses.
Help and support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal – information and e‑services
- Enforcement Authority – on enforcement and collection
- Parliament – Land Code chapter 12
