Tenant Guide: Energy Declaration in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, energy declarations, heating systems and indoor environment can affect your living standards and rights. This text explains what an energy declaration means, how heating deficiencies are assessed and what steps you can take if your apartment does not meet basic requirements. You get concrete advice on dialogue with the landlord, documentation of problems, when to contact the Rent Tribunal and which legal support may be relevant under the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken). We also describe how a case can proceed to the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) and which types of evidence are often decisive.

What is an energy declaration and why does it affect tenants?

The energy declaration shows the building's energy use and can indicate the efficiency of the heating system. For tenants it is part of the overall picture when heating, ventilation and indoor environment are discussed with the landlord. An energy declaration itself does not always give the right to demand measures, but it can complement your documentation when pointing out defects to the landlord.

Who is responsible for what?

The landlord is usually responsible for the building's technical systems and that the apartment meets basic housing standards according to the Code of Land.^[1] The tenant is responsible for caring for the apartment according to the lease. If defects occur, it is best to first notify the landlord in writing and request a remedy.

Heating and indoor environment — what can you demand?

• Request repair of the heating system from the landlord if the indoor temperature falls below reasonable levels.
• Request compensation or reduced rent if heating deficiency lasts a long time and affects living quality.
• For record: take photos, note dates and keep receipts for temporary solutions or purchases.

When should you contact authorities?

If the landlord does not remedy defects after a written request, you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for a review or dispute; there are forms and guidance at domstol.se.^[2] For judgments or decisions that require enforcement, the matter is often handled by the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden).^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I demand that the landlord replace an inefficient heating system?

You can demand that the landlord remedy defects that affect the apartment's basic standard, but major technical investments are often assessed in relation to the property and may require longer processes.

What do I do if the heating fails during winter?

Contact the landlord immediately in writing, document the situation and request prompt action. If nothing happens, you can contact the Rent Tribunal for review.

Can I deduct rent on my own?

You should not make deductions on your own without agreement or a decision; document the defect and apply for review at the Rent Tribunal for clear guidance on rent reduction.

How to

1. Contact the landlord in writing and describe the issue, request a schedule for repairs (contact).
2. Document the problems carefully with photos, logs and receipts (record).
3. If no solution is given, file an application to the Rent Tribunal with relevant documentation (form).
4. For decisions that require enforcement, follow up via the Enforcement Authority or legal channels (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• Code of Land (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
• Rent Tribunal and forms at Domstol.se
• Enforcement Authority - Kronofogden

1. [1] Jordabalken (1970:994), 12 kap. — riksdagen.se
2. [2] Rent Tribunal and tenancy matters — domstol.se
3. [3] Enforcement Authority - information on enforcement — kronofogden.se