Tenant in Sweden: landlord costs and legal protection

As a tenant in Sweden you may wonder if a landlord can recover costs or use legal protection when problems arise. This guide clearly explains when costs may be relevant, what legal protection means and which rules apply under the Land Code^[1]. We cover common situations — repairs, damage, unpaid rent and disputes — and show practical steps you as a tenant can take to protect your home and your rights. The information is written for people without legal background and points to which authorities you can contact if a dispute arises.

What can a landlord claim compensation for?

A landlord can in certain cases demand compensation for damage or costs resulting from the tenant's actions. Compensation can concern repairs after vandalism, cleaning after severe dirtiness or costs for unpaid rent. Decisions about compensation often depend on the lease agreement and provisions in the Land Code^[1].

• Repairs after damage or neglect, for example broken installations or extensive soiling.
• Unpaid rents and fees that may require collection or legal action.
• Costs for cleaning or restoration if the apartment has been left in poor condition.

Legal protection and legal aid

Legal protection is a form of legal support that can cover lawyer or representative costs in disputes. It may be available via home insurance or separate legal protection, but coverage varies. For disputes about tenancy, the Rent Tribunal may be the proper authority to review the matter^[2], and in some cases the issue can later be reviewed by a general court.

What can you do as a tenant?

If a dispute arises there are practical actions that reduce the risk of incorrect claims and higher costs.

• Keep all documentation: photos, receipts, written communication and contracts.
• Notify the landlord in writing and request itemized documentation for any claimed costs.
• Observe deadlines for responses and appeals; do not miss important dates in correspondence or decisions.
• Seek advice early, for example from tenant associations or legal advisors.

The process: from claim to decision

If the landlord demands costs, the case may lead to an application to the Rent Tribunal or to a claim at the Enforcement Authority if payment is not made. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes concerning tenancy and can make decisions about compensation or rent reductions^[2]. For collections, the Enforcement Authority's procedures are used^[3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord deduct costs directly from the deposit?

It depends on what is agreed in the lease agreement and the nature of the damages; often documentation is required and sometimes a review by the Rent Tribunal.

Does home insurance cover legal protection in tenancy disputes?

In many cases home insurance covers legal protection for disputes, but terms vary; check your insurance policy for exclusions and limits.

What happens if I do not pay a cost the landlord demands?

If you do not pay, the landlord can apply for a payment order with the Enforcement Authority or bring the case to the Rent Tribunal for review.

How to

1. Gather all documentation: photos, receipts, written communication and the contract.
2. Notify the landlord in writing and request itemized supporting documents for any costs.
3. Seek advice from a tenant association or legal advisor if you are unsure.
4. If no agreement is reached, consider submitting an application to the Rent Tribunal.

Key points

• Always keep documentation as evidence in a dispute.
• Respect deadlines for responses and appeals.
• Seek early advice to avoid larger costs.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal via domstol.se
• Legislation via riksdagen.se
• Enforcement information via kronofogden.se

1. [1] Riksdagen — Land Code (Jordabalken, 1970:994), Chapter 12 (Tenancy)
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and e-services
3. [3] Kronofogden.se — Collection and enforcement