Tenant Guide: Review Operating Costs in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to understand which operating costs you can be charged for and how they are calculated. This guide explains in plain language which items are often included — for example electricity, water, heating and broadband — and shows practical steps to check bills, request documentation from the landlord and collect evidence. We also describe when legislation or a dispute should be handled by the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority and give concrete advice on how to formulate a request for correction. The text is aimed at non-lawyers and helps you act step by step to protect your rights in Sweden.

What is included in operating costs?

Operating costs can vary depending on the agreement and the property. Common items are heating, water, waste collection, electricity for common areas and broadband fees. Always check your lease to see what is explicitly stated.

• Heating and warm water (heating)
• Water and sewage (water)
• Broadband or subscription fee (fee)
• Waste collection and common charges (fee)

How billing usually works

Billing can be based on actual consumption or flat rates. Some buildings have meters in each apartment, others allocate costs by area or share. Request itemized statements and receipts from the landlord if something seems unclear. The right to documentation is grounded in tenancy law and the Code of Land (Jordabalken, Chapter 12).^[1]

If you suspect an error in billing: compare your consumption with previous periods, check the meter readings and ask for an explanation in writing. Documentation makes it easier to have a factual dialogue or file an application with the Rent Tribunal.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Which costs can the landlord charge as operating costs?

The landlord can charge costs related to the operation and maintenance of the property if it is stated in the agreement, for example heating, water and common electricity expenses.

How do I verify that a charge is correct?

Request itemized statements and meter readings, compare consumption over time and keep receipts and communications. If needed, the Rent Tribunal can adjudicate the dispute.^[2]

When should I contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority?

Contact the Rent Tribunal for disputes about rent or charges that you cannot resolve; the Enforcement Authority handles enforcement if a judgment or decision needs to be carried out.^[3]

How to

1. Gather documentation: bills, meter readings, lease agreement and written communication (evidence).
2. Request written documentation from the landlord and ask specific questions about how amounts are calculated (form).
3. Set a reasonable deadline for a response and keep proof that you contacted the landlord (deadline).
4. If you do not reach a solution, submit an application to the Rent Tribunal with copies of your documentation (court).

Key rights

Tenants have the right to transparency in charges and to reasonable explanations. The Code of Land regulates many aspects of tenancy relationships and the Rent Tribunal adjudicates disputes between tenant and landlord.^[1]

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal and application information
• Code of Land (Chapter 12) – riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority – kronofogden.se

1. [1] Riksdagen: Jordabalken (12 kap.)
2. [2] Domstol.se: Hyresnämnden and forms
3. [3] Kronofogden: Enforcement and information