Short-term rentals: deadlines for tenants in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to know which deadlines apply to short-term rentals. This guide explains when you must respond to terminations, written notices, complaints about defects and damage, and how quickly you should gather evidence. Deadlines affect both your rights and obligations, such as the days you have to contest a termination or request compensation for repairs. The guide also covers how the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) and the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) can be used in a dispute and which documents are usually required to support a case in Sweden.^[1]

Important deadlines to know

The following list gives an overview of common deadlines that often affect short-term rentals and tenancy relationships.

• Respond to written termination or notice within the days stated in the document or the law.
• Report defects or deficiencies to the landlord in writing as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
• Keep rent receipts, messages and photos as evidence within 14–30 days after the incident.
• Submit an application to the Rent Tribunal if you want a dispute heard — follow the tribunal's deadlines for supplements.
• If enforcement or eviction becomes relevant there are specific deadlines in the Enforcement Authority's processes; follow their summons carefully.

What counts as a reasonable time varies with the nature of the case. A complaint deadline for a broken heating system may be shorter than the time to contest a termination. Therefore it is good to act quickly on defects and check relevant documents for stated deadlines.^[2]

Practical steps and evidence

When you act: note the date, describe the event, take photos and always send messages in writing. If you hire contractors, keep receipts and work descriptions. If the landlord disputes your claim, detailed documentation can be decisive in a hearing.

• Take photographs and note the date and time for each defect or damage.
• Keep receipts for repairs and other expenses related to the dwelling.
• Send complaints or reminders by email or registered mail for traceability.

If the landlord does not fix defects you may need to report the case to the Rent Tribunal. Applications and supplements have their own deadlines — check instructions on the court's website.^[2]

Frequently asked questions

Which law governs tenancy relationships for short-term rentals?

The Code of Land (Jordabalken) Chapter 12 regulates provisions on tenancy for housing in Sweden and is the starting point for disputes about tenancy relationships.^[1]

How much time do I have to complain about disturbances or defects?

You should report defects in writing as soon as possible; practice usually suggests doing so within a few weeks to avoid weakening your rights.

What happens if the landlord wants to evict me?

The landlord must follow termination periods and legal processes; if you receive a termination notice you can seek review in the Rent Tribunal and in some cases get assistance via the Enforcement Authority if enforcement becomes relevant.^[3]

How to

1. Write down the incident and collect evidence such as photos, messages and receipts.
2. Send a written complaint or objection to the landlord and request a written response.
3. If you cannot agree, apply to the Rent Tribunal and follow their instructions for supplements.
4. For enforcement or distraint, follow the Enforcement Authority's instructions and contact them if you need process information.

Help and support / Resources

• Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)
• Riksdagen.se — Code of Land (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
• Kronofogden.se — information on enforcement

1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken 1970:994, Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
3. [3] Kronofogden.se — information on distraint and eviction