Report Defects Correctly - Tenants in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you have the right to a maintained home and to report defects that affect the condition or safety of your residence. This guide simply explains what you can require from your landlord, how to document faults, which deadlines apply and when you can file an application with the Rent Tribunal. We go through steps for sending a written complaint, how to handle missed repairs and what happens if a dispute escalates. The text uses clear language and concrete advice so that you as a tenant can act confidently and know what rights and options exist in Sweden.
Rules and fundamentals
In Sweden rental relationships are mainly regulated by the Land Code, Chapter 12 (Tenancy) which governs maintenance obligations and when a tenant can report defects.[1] If the landlord does not remedy defects the matter can be examined by the Rent Tribunal.[2] For enforcement actions, the Enforcement Authority may become relevant.[3]
What to document
- Photos and video of the damage (photo, evidence).
- Date and time when you discovered the fault (time, date).
- Written communication with the landlord (record, document).
- Any costs and receipts for temporary measures (payment, receipt).
Always keep original files and back up photos and emails that show date and time.
How to complain in writing
A written complaint provides clear evidence and shows you attempted to have the problem fixed. State the nature of the faults, when they were discovered, and attach documentation.
- Write a letter or email clearly describing the defect (write, form).
- Attach photos, dates and receipts that show the problem (file, evidence).
- Keep a copy and request confirmation or a reply within a reasonable time (submit, deliver).
Send the complaint so you can prove the date and content if it becomes a dispute.
If the landlord does not act
If the landlord does not fix the defect you can first request repair in writing and then request a rent reduction or hire a professional and claim compensation. For larger disputes you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication.[2]
- Request a rent reduction if the defect affects the standard of living (rent, reduction).
- Request that the Rent Tribunal reviews the case if you cannot reach an agreement (application, form).
- If necessary, authorities or courts and enforcement can be used (court, enforcement).
The Rent Tribunal often hears disputes about defects and rent reductions, but the process can take time.
FAQ
- How quickly must the landlord fix a defect?
- It depends on the nature of the defect; urgent faults that threaten safety must be addressed immediately, other faults within a reasonable time depending on the scope of work.
- Can I withhold rent if something is broken?
- Withholding the entire rent is risky; better to document the defect, request a rent reduction or let the Rent Tribunal decide.
- Where do I turn if the landlord refuses to fix?
- You can apply to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication and in some cases get help with enforcement via the Enforcement Authority.[2]
How-To
- Document the defect with photos, video and dates (document, evidence).
- Send a written complaint to the landlord and request a reply (write, submit).
- If nothing happens, apply for a rent reduction or adjudication at the Rent Tribunal (rent, application).
- If needed: follow up decisions and take further actions with proper support or authorities (court, enforcement).
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Riksdagen: Land Code, Chapter 12
- [2] Domstol.se: Rent Tribunal
- [3] Enforcement Authority: Enforcement and collection
