Tenant Documents to Avoid Reclaim in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to know which documents to keep to protect yourself against reclaim claims from a landlord. This article plainly explains which receipts, repair reports and written communications can strengthen your position in disputes about repairs, deposits or damage to the dwelling. We cover practical advice on documentation, deadlines for complaints and how you can use evidence if work was carried out by the landlord or by yourself. The text also explains when it is appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority and how to best organize your papers for a possible review. Follow concrete examples and templates to know which evidence helps with damage claims or paid rents. Advice on photographing, timestamps and saving emails is included.

What to keep

The following documents are the most useful if you want to avoid or respond to a reclaim from the landlord:

• Receipts for repairs and purchased materials.
• Repair reports and work orders from the landlord or contractors.
• Email, text messages and other written communication with the landlord or contractors.
• Photos and videos before and after repairs showing the extent of damage.
• Timestamps, dates for fault reports and completed actions.
• Receipts for rent, deposit and any deductions or refunds.

How to organize documents

Create a simple folder structure, for example one folder for rent invoices, one for fault reports and one for photos. Label files with dates and a short description of the content. If a repair occurs, document both the problem and the work done with dates and the responsible person.

Note also applicable law: tenancy is governed by the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) chapter 12.^[1] For disputes, the Rent Tribunal can provide review and guidance.^[2] If an order needs enforcement, the Enforcement Authority may be involved.^[3]

When to seek help

If you cannot agree with the landlord: first contact the landlord in writing and collect evidence. If that is not enough, turn to the Rent Tribunal for review or advice. In matters with payment reminders or enforcement, the Enforcement Authority may be involved.

FAQ

Which receipts should I keep?

Keep receipts for all repairs, purchases of materials, rent invoices and deposits related to your dwelling.

How long should I keep documents?

Keep documents at least until any claims from the landlord are resolved; in disputes longer retention may be necessary.

Do I have to contact the Rent Tribunal myself?

You can apply to the Rent Tribunal for disputes about rent and repairs; guidance is also available through their website.

How to

1. Gather all relevant receipts, photos and messages into a folder with clear filenames.
2. Create a short timeline of events with dates and who you contacted.
3. If you cannot resolve the dispute, apply to the Rent Tribunal and attach your documentation.
4. Follow instructions from authorities and prepare copies if the matter proceeds to enforcement.

Key takeaways

• Always save receipts, fault reports and photos to support your case.
• Track deadlines and document dates for all contacts and actions.
• Organize documents digitally and keep backups for quick evidence submission.

Help and Support / Resources

• Riksdagen – legislation and statutes
• Domstol.se – Rent Tribunal and forms
• Kronofogden – enforcement information

1. [1] Jordabalken (1970:994) — Riksdagen
2. [2] Hyresnämnden — Domstol.se
3. [3] Kronofogden — Information on enforcement