Tenant Guide: Avoid Repayment Claims in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may sometimes face claims from a landlord asking you to pay for repairs or maintenance. This guide explains how to dispute or appeal a repayment claim, which evidence matters and when to contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) or the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden). I walk through practical steps for documentation, deadlines and common forms so you can protect your rights without legal expertise. The information helps you assess whether a repayment claim is reasonable, how to communicate in writing with the landlord and when to seek external help. The goal is to give clear, actionable advice for rented apartments and tenant-owners in Sweden. Read on.

When can a repayment claim arise?

A repayment claim can appear if the landlord contends that costs for repairs or measures should be borne by the tenant. Under the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) there are rules about what counts as the landlord’s maintenance duty and when costs can be passed on to the tenant ^[1]. The assessment often depends on who caused the damage, what the lease says and whether the landlord followed correct procedures.

Quick checklist

• Document damage with photos and dates (photo, evidence).
• Keep receipts and payment proof for rent and deposits (rent, deposit).
• Report faults in writing to the landlord and request repairs (repair).
• Seek help from the Rent Tribunal if you cannot agree (court).

How do I dispute or appeal a repayment claim?

If you receive a written claim: reply in writing and request an itemised cost breakdown. Briefly state why you dispute the claim and attach evidence such as photographs, receipts or witness statements. If you cannot reach a solution you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for review or appeal a decision according to available procedures ^[2]. Some cases can also be enforced through the Enforcement Authority if a decision is executed ^[3].

If the landlord attempts collections through threats or similar, document the threat and contact advice services or the Rent Tribunal. It is important to meet deadlines for responses and appeals; do not miss the dates stated in the claim letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I dispute a repayment claim if I did not consent?

Yes. If you did not consent you should collect evidence, reply in writing and, if necessary, apply for review with the Rent Tribunal.

Which evidence is strongest in a repayment dispute?

Photographs with dates, receipts, written fault reports and any witness statements are important evidence.

What happens if I lose at the Rent Tribunal?

If you lose, the decision can be enforced through the Enforcement Authority if a payment obligation is established.

How to

1. Write a formal response to the landlord where you dispute the repayment claim and request an itemised cost breakdown (notice).
2. Gather evidence: date-stamped photos, receipts and written fault reports (photo, evidence).
3. Request that the landlord remedy defects that fall under the maintenance obligation if relevant (repair).
4. If you cannot agree, submit an application to the Rent Tribunal for review (court).
5. Seek advice from tenant associations or legal counsel if needed (contact).

Key takeaways

• Always document damage and communication immediately.
• Respond in writing to claims and request detailed cost breakdowns.
• Turn to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement.

Help and support

• Rent Tribunal and court services — domstol.se
• Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) — riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority for collection and enforcement — kronofogden.se

1. [1] Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) — riksdagen.se
2. [2] Rent Tribunal and court services — domstol.se
3. [3] Enforcement Authority for collection and enforcement — kronofogden.se