Subletting and Co-living: Tenant Rules in Sweden
Living in a co-living arrangement or hosting a subtenant places specific demands on tenants in Sweden. You need to understand the rules for leases, who is responsible for what, and how termination or rent increases work. This guide explains simple steps to protect your rights, document problems, and seek help in disputes. We cover when you need landlord consent, the rules for temporary housing, and how the Rent Tribunal can assist in disagreements. The goal is for you as a tenant to feel more confident in your decisions and know which practical measures work in Sweden. Here are concrete tips for everyday issues and legal matters. Read on for step-by-step instructions and common questions.
What applies to subtenants and co-living?
In Sweden, lease forms and tenancy conditions are governed by the Land Code (Jordabalken, Chapter 12), which sets out tenants' and landlords' rights and obligations.[1] In short, you should check your lease: temporary housing rules, restrictions on subtenants, and whether transfer to a third party is permitted. Landlord consent is often required in writing to take in a subtenant or change the use of the apartment.
- Lease: who is on the contract (form).
- Landlord consent: written approval is recommended (form).
- Termination periods and rules: check applicable deadlines (deadline).
- Payments: rent, deposit and splitting costs (rent).
- Repairs and maintenance: who is responsible (repair).
What happens in a dispute?
If you cannot agree, the Rent Tribunal can review the dispute and provide a decision about rights and obligations. You will need to gather evidence, correspondence and receipts before applying.[2] If a decision needs enforcement, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) can be used to carry out an eviction or collection after a court decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need landlord consent for a subtenant?
- In most cases yes. Check your lease and ask the landlord for written approval.
- Can I be evicted for having a subtenant?
- It depends on whether the subtenancy breaches the agreement or disturbs neighbors. Termination must follow legal rules.
- What does the Rent Tribunal do?
- The Rent Tribunal adjudicates disputes between landlords and tenants and can issue binding decisions.
How to
- Document the issue: collect photos, messages and receipts (evidence).
- Contact the landlord in writing: request a remedy and set a reasonable deadline (contact).
- Apply to the Rent Tribunal: submit the application with evidence and correspondence (court).
- Follow the decision: enforce via the Enforcement Authority if necessary after a court ruling (court).
Key takeaways
- Always document correspondence and receipts as evidence.
- Seek help early: contact your landlord before issues escalate.
- Know your rights under the Land Code and note the relevant sections.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal — domstol.se
- Land Code (Chapter 12) — riksdagen.se
- Enforcement Authority — kronofogden.se
