Tenant Costs and Obligations in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to understand who is responsible for costs for repairs, maintenance, deposits and in cases of subletting or shared housing. This guide clearly explains which costs typically fall on the landlord versus the tenant, which rules in the Swedish Code of Land Law govern tenancy relationships ^[1], and how to proceed in disputes. You will get practical advice on documentation, communication with the landlord and when to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority ^[2][3]. Read on for concrete steps to follow.

What counts as the tenant's responsibility?

The tenant's responsibility varies, but usually you must pay rent and keep the dwelling in normal condition. Minor maintenance and routine cleaning are often the tenant's duty, while major repairs affecting the dwelling's basic function are usually the landlord's responsibility.

Common tenant tasks

• Pay the rent on time (rent).
• Carry out small repairs and upkeep yourself (repair).
• Report damages in writing to the landlord (notice).
• Keep receipts, photos and correspondence as evidence (evidence).

What landlords typically pay for

Landlords normally cover major repairs, problems with heating, water and electrical systems, and ensuring the dwelling meets basic habitability standards according to the Code of Land Law ^[1]. If a landlord fails to fix serious defects you may be entitled to rent reduction or to recover costs after approved action.

On subletting and shared housing

For subletting, the primary tenant usually needs permission if required in the contract, and the primary tenant remains responsible toward the landlord. The subtenant is responsible for their own use and costs under your agreement. If conflict arises, the Rent Tribunal can review permission and rights ^[2].

How to document and prepare a case

Good documentation improves your chances. Write down dates, keep receipts and take photos before and after damage. Communicate in writing with the landlord and request responses within a reasonable time.

• Save photos and receipts for every damage (evidence).
• Send written fault reports and keep copies (notice).
• Note dates and deadlines for responses (within).

Frequently asked questions

Who pays for a leaking tap?

If the leak is due to normal wear the landlord usually pays, but small fixes may be the tenant's responsibility depending on the agreement.

Can the landlord withhold the deposit without reason?

The deposit must be returned if nothing is damaged or unpaid; disputes can be taken to the Rent Tribunal ^[2].

What if the landlord does not fix a serious defect?

Document the defect, send a written request and consider contacting the Rent Tribunal for review or the Enforcement Authority for collection ^[2][3].

How-to

1. Document the issue with photos and receipts (evidence).
2. Send a written fault report to the landlord and request action (notice).
3. Allow a reasonable time for response according to the lease or practice (within).
4. If no solution, contact the Rent Tribunal for advice and review (call).
5. For financial disputes, consider taking the case to the Enforcement Authority for enforcement (court).

Key tips

• Always use written communication when possible.
• Collect evidence before doing major repairs yourself.

Help and support

• [1] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
• [2] Riksdagen.se — Code of Land Law (chapter 12)
• [3] Kronofogden.se — Enforcement and collection

1. [1] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
2. [2] Riksdagen.se — Code of Land Law (chapter 12)
3. [3] Kronofogden.se — Enforcement and collection