Tenant Evidence in Sweden: Photos, Logs, Witnesses
As a tenant in Sweden you may need to prove issues such as damage, missed repairs or wrongful termination. Collecting clear evidence — photographs, a running fault and contact log, receipts and witness statements — makes it easier to show what happened and when. This guide explains in simple terms which types of evidence help in discussions with the landlord, in the Rent Tribunal and in possible debt collection matters. You will get practical advice on how to take secure photos, keep a log that courts and authorities accept, and how to ask witnesses for their account. The text is adapted to Swedish rules and helps you act methodically and confidently.
What counts as evidence?
Evidence can be photographs, video clips, a written log of faults and contacts, receipts for repairs or replacements, and witness statements from neighbors or visitors. Rental relationships are regulated by the Code of Land (Jordabalken), which affects what may be required and how disputes are handled [1].
Document with photos
Take clear photos showing scale and context. Photograph the damage from multiple angles, include an object for scale if possible, and take before-and-after photos when repairs are made. Save original files with timestamps in file metadata when possible.
- Photograph from multiple angles and document the surroundings.
- Keep original images with date and time in the file information when possible.
- Also take overview photos that show where in the dwelling the damage is located.
Keep a log and receipts
A chronological log makes the sequence of events clear: date, time, what happened, who you spoke to and what actions were taken. Also keep receipts for purchases or work and all written communication with the landlord.
- Write date and time for each event or contact.
- Keep receipts for materials and work related to the fault.
- Keep copies of emails, SMS and other messages.
Witnesses and written statements
Witnesses can describe what they saw or heard and strengthen your version of events. Ask witnesses to write a short statement with date and contact details, and have them sign if they can.
- Ask witnesses to write a short statement with date and name.
- Record contact details if the witness can be reached for follow-up questions.
When you submit evidence to the Rent Tribunal
If you cannot reach an agreement with the landlord you can apply to the Rent Tribunal. Prepare your application with clear documentation and refer to relevant events in your log. The Rent Tribunal often asks for copies of evidence, not originals, so submit copies and keep the originals. Read more about the application process and forms on the court website [2].
- Collect copies of photos, receipts, log and witness statements.
- Respect deadlines for submission and responses from the other party.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use phone photos as evidence?
- Yes, phone photos work as evidence if they are clear and show relevant details. Save the original files and note when the pictures were taken.
- How long should I keep logs and receipts?
- Keep documentation until the matter is finally resolved, including any hearing at the Rent Tribunal or enforcement at the Enforcement Authority [3].
- Is a witness statement enough to win a dispute?
- Witness statements strengthen your case but are most effective together with photos, receipts and clear log keeping.
How to
- Take photos immediately of the damage from several angles and keep the original files.
- Keep a running log with date, time, what happened and who you contacted.
- Save receipts for materials or work and note costs in your log.
- Collect copies of all documentation and attach when applying to the Rent Tribunal [2].
- If enforcement or payment questions arise, contact the Enforcement Authority for advice and information [3].
Help and Support / Resources
- Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
- Riksdagen.se — Code of Land (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
- Kronofogden.se — enforcement and debt collection
