Short-term Renting in Sweden – Tenant Rights
As a tenant, you may worry if your landlord wants to rent out your home short-term to tourists or on platforms. This text explains the rules that apply in Sweden for short-term renting, the rights and obligations tenants have, and the steps you can take if you suspect unauthorized letting. We cover how your lease and the Code of Land (Jordabalken) affect the situation, what counts as permission or breach of contract, and when it may be relevant to contact the rent tribunal or the enforcement authority. The goal is to give clear, practical advice so you can protect your housing situation and know how to act. We also explain how to document evidence and which deadlines are important. The information is practical and intended for tenants in Sweden.
What applies?
In Sweden many questions about apartment letting are governed by the Code of Land and case law from the rent tribunals, which affect when short-term renting is allowed or not.[1]
In most cases, tenants are entitled to basic habitability standards.
When can the landlord rent out?
- When the lease explicitly grants permission for short-term renting.
- When the landlord has received approval according to the contract or a special decision.
- When the letting does not violate local rules or disturb neighbors.
- When extra fees or payments are stated in the contract or agreement.
Document dates, messages and photos if you suspect unauthorized letting.
If you suspect unauthorized short-term renting, start by speaking with the landlord. If you cannot agree, you can turn to the rent tribunal for review or advice[2], and in some cases the enforcement authority for implementation of decisions[3].
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord rent out my apartment without my consent?
- Usually not if the lease does not allow it. The Code of Land governs tenancy relations and can be used in disputes. [1]
- What can I do if the letting disturbs me?
- First try to communicate with the landlord. Document the disturbances and contact the rent tribunal for review. [2]
- Can I claim compensation or terminate the lease?
- In some cases you can seek compensation or termination, but contact the rent tribunal for assessment. [2]
How to
- Write down dates, times and save messages and photos as evidence.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request an explanation.
- If no solution: apply to the rent tribunal and use their forms. [2]
- For enforcement or unpaid fees the enforcement authority may become relevant. [3]
Respond to summonses and keep deadlines to avoid losing opportunities in a dispute.
Key takeaways
- Short-term renting may be allowed if the lease or permission allows it.
- Documentation is often decisive in tenancy disputes.
- The rent tribunal handles disputes between tenants and landlords.
Help and support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal – information and e-services
- Riksdagen – Code of Land (Jordabalken)
- Enforcement Authority – information on enforcement
