Tenant Evidence: Photos, Logs, Witnesses in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to be able to show evidence in maintenance and repair matters. This guide explains concretely how to document damage or defects with photographs, a detailed log, correspondence and witness statements. We describe which types of photos help, how to write a clear time‑stamped log, what a witness should attest to and when you may need to send material to the landlord or the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)^[2]. The text also gives practical advice on saving receipts, backing up digitally and how to organize material in case of a dispute. The goal is to give tenants in Sweden confidence in collecting evidence in an orderly and legally useful way.

What counts as evidence?

Evidence can be both digital and physical: photographs of damage, a time‑stamped log of events, email and text message correspondence, receipts for repairs and written witness statements from neighbors or contractors.

• Photos: clear images before and after, with date and scale.
• Log: date, time, what happened and what actions were taken.
• Correspondence: email and text messages showing contact with the landlord.
• Receipts: costs for repairs or temporary solutions.
• Witness statements: names and contact details of people who saw the problem.

How to collect evidence correctly

Think chronologically: start by photographing the damage from several angles and create a simple log noting the date and time for each event. Keep all receipts and store files in more than one place, for example on an encrypted cloud service and a local backup. If you contact the landlord, always send written information and save replies. If the problem is serious or persists you may need to submit an application to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)^[2] or refer to the law in the Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12^[1].

When witnesses help

Witnesses can confirm that a problem has existed over time or verify exposure to moisture damage or disturbances. Ask the witness to write a short statement with date and contact information. If possible, have the witness sign and date the statement.

FAQ

What is enough as evidence?

Photographs, time‑stamped logs, correspondence and receipts are often sufficient if they are well documented.

How long should I keep evidence?

Keep documents and images as long as the dispute may be relevant; at least until the case is concluded or according to applicable limitation periods.

Can witness statements replace photographs?

Witness statements often complement photographs but do not replace visual evidence; both are valuable together.

How to

1. Take several clear photos with date stamping and note where in the dwelling the photo was taken.
2. Write a log with date and time for each event or contact with the landlord.
3. Collect witness statements in writing with name and contact information.
4. Save receipts and document all costs for measures or temporary solutions.
5. If you need to proceed, apply to the Rent Tribunal and attach your documentation^[2].

Key takeaways

• Document immediately to preserve stronger evidence.
• Keep original receipts and store copies digitally.
• Contact the Rent Tribunal if you cannot resolve the issue with the landlord.

Help and Support / Resources

• Riksdagen - Code of Land (Jordabalken, ch. 12)
• Domstol.se - Rent Tribunal and forms
• Kronofogden - Enforcement and debt collection

1. [1] Riksdagen
2. [2] Domstol.se
3. [3] Kronofogden