Report Changes on Time — Tenant Rights in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden it is important to report changes to your home or contact details in good time. Reporting damage, ongoing maintenance needs or changed income affects both your rights and obligations under the tenancy agreement. This guide explains what you should report, which deadlines apply and how to document issues about repairs, rent increases or termination. The goal is to give clear steps that help you act quickly, avoid misunderstandings with the landlord and strengthen your position in any disputes. The content suits both those living in rental apartments and those who have recently moved to Sweden. We also cover how to contact the Rent Tribunal and which documents you should have ready.
What to report
Reports should be clear and preferably in writing. Notifying on time reduces the risk of misunderstandings and makes it easier to get help if the problem worsens.
- Damage and defects in the apartment (repair)
- Changed contact details or new phone/email (contact)
- Changed income affecting rent payments (payment)
- Termination or planned move-out (move-out)
What the law says
Your rights as a tenant are governed in part by the Swedish Code of Statutes, the Land Code (Jordabalken), chapter 12 on rent.[1] If the landlord does not fix serious defects you may have the right to demand repair or a rent reduction.
How to document and keep evidence
Documentation is often decisive in disputes. Collect dated photos, keep receipts and retain all written communication.
- Photos with dates and descriptions (photo)
- Written notification or email to the landlord (mail)
- Receipts for payments or replacement costs (payment)
What to do if the landlord does not act
Start by reminding the landlord in writing and request a timetable for repairs. If nothing happens you can contact the Rent Tribunal for review or apply for a rent reduction via the court's e-services.[2] If enforcement is needed, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may be the next step.[3]
Frequently asked questions
- When should I report a repair?
- Report as soon as you notice the problem; for urgent faults contact the landlord immediately and follow up in writing.
- Can I refuse to pay rent if a repair is not done?
- No, you should not withhold rent without first seeking review from the Rent Tribunal or following the correct process for a rent reduction.
- Which documents are most important to keep?
- Photographs with dates, written communication with the landlord and receipts for expenses are central.
How to
- Collect evidence: take photos, note dates and write down the sequence of events (photo).
- Send a written notification to the landlord or manager and request a reply within a reasonable time (mail).
- Request a written timetable for repair and document all responses (repair).
- Keep receipts if you pay for temporary repairs and request reimbursement in writing (payment).
- If the issue is not resolved, apply for review with the Rent Tribunal or use the court's e-services as instructed.[2]
