Report Changes on Time — Tenant in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to report changes in your housing situation promptly — for example address changes, altered income, or damage that affects the condition of the home. This guide clearly explains which changes should be reported to the landlord or the Rent Tribunal, how to document the matter, and which deadlines usually apply. I show step by step how to gather evidence, send correct information and what you can do if the landlord does not fix faults or proposes illegal fee changes. The information is adapted to Swedish conditions and points to where you can find official forms and support. It also covers how to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority if needed and how to protect your rights through clear communication and documentation.

What to report

It is good to inform the landlord or management when the following changes occur. In some cases a written report or special forms are required.

• Address change or moving in/out of the apartment.
• Financial changes that affect the rent amount or housing allowance.
• Damage or defects in the apartment that require repair (e.g. heating, water, electricity).
• Changed contact details for you or residents in the apartment.

Legal basis and who to contact

Rules on rent and maintenance are found in the Land Code, Chapter 12, which describes tenant and landlord obligations and rights.^[1] In disputes the Rent Tribunal handles cases about rent terms and maintenance.^[2]

How to document

Documentation is often decisive if you have a dispute. Keep all communication, take date-stamped photos and keep receipts for repairs or expenses. Mark important dates and who you spoke with so the history becomes clear.

• Take clear photos or video of damage with dates.
• Keep receipts for repairs and payments.
• Keep a log of calls and written correspondence with the landlord.

When to act

Act as soon as you discover a problem that affects the condition of the home or your costs. Some situations require immediate reporting, others can wait a short time but should still be documented and raised in writing.

• Report major damage immediately so dangerous conditions are fixed.
• Respond to formal demands or replies within 14 days if a date is stated in a demand.
• Send a formal defect report in writing if issues are not fixed after verbal contact.

If the matter is not resolved you can apply for help at the Rent Tribunal or in some cases have the matter enforced via the Enforcement Authority.^[3]

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need to report income changes to the landlord?

If your rent depends on income or housing allowance you should report changes that affect your entitlement to allowance or rent level.

What do I do if the landlord does not fix a defect?

Document the defect, send a written defect report and contact the Rent Tribunal if the issue is not resolved.

Can I move without notifying the landlord?

No, moving and change of residence must always be reported to the landlord according to the agreement and often in writing.

How to

1. Collect documentation: photos, receipts and correspondence.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and describe the problem clearly.
3. Send a formal report or application to the Rent Tribunal if the matter is not resolved.
4. If necessary, contact the Enforcement Authority for enforcement or further advice.

Key takeaways

• Report changes promptly to protect your rights.
• Always document damages with dates and photos.
• The Rent Tribunal can adjudicate disputes if you cannot agree.

Help and support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal – forms and e-services
• Land Code Chapter 12 (Rent)
• Enforcement Authority – enforcement and information

1. [1] Riksdagen – Land Code Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se – Rent Tribunal
3. [3] Kronofogden.se – Enforcement and information