Tenant in Sweden: Who pays for internet, TV and parking?
As a tenant in Sweden, questions about who pays for internet, TV or parking can feel unclear. Responsibility often depends on the rental agreement, the building's contracts with providers and whether parking is included in the rent or billed separately. This guide explains common practices, which costs may be included in the rent and when you as a tenant may need to sign your own contracts or pay additional fees. We cover typical scenarios, documentation you should collect and the steps you can take in a dispute — including how to use the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)[2] and the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden)[3]. The aim is to give clear advice so you can understand your rights and act confidently.
What determines who pays?
The basic rule is what is written in your rental agreement. The Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter on rent, sets the framework for lease relationships but many practical issues are decided in the agreement between tenant and landlord.[1] In multi-unit buildings the property owner may have common contracts for internet or TV that are included in the rent, while parking spaces are often handled as separate fees or by association rules in condominiums.
Common arrangements
- Internet or TV may be included in the rent if stated in the agreement or if the landlord has a shared subscription.
- Parking space can be rented separately with its own fee or be part of the monthly rent.
- Sometimes the landlord signs contracts with providers and passes part of the cost on to tenants.
- As a tenant you may need to sign your own subscription if nothing else is specified.
What to do in case of disagreement?
If you and the landlord are uncertain or disagree, start by collecting all documentation: the rental agreement, past rent statements, invoices and emails or messages. Contact the landlord in writing and explain which charge you dispute and why. If you cannot reach a solution, the Rent Tribunal can examine disputes about rental terms and payment responsibility, and in some cases the Enforcement Authority can be used to enforce decisions.[2][3]
Key points
- The rental agreement is the primary source to determine payment responsibility.
- Keep records: agreements, receipts and messages when disputes arise.
- Seek help from the Rent Tribunal if you cannot resolve the issue directly with the landlord.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I have to pay for internet as a tenant if it is not in the rental agreement?
- No, if it is not stated in the rental agreement it is typically the tenant's responsibility to arrange and pay for their own subscription.
- Can the landlord charge separately for parking?
- Yes, if parking is listed as a separate fee in the agreement or the property rules, the landlord can charge a separate fee.
- What do I do if the landlord demands payment I disagree with?
- Keep documentation, contact the landlord in writing, and consider applying for a review at the Rent Tribunal.
How to
- Read your rental agreement and note what it says about internet, TV and parking.
- Collect evidence: agreements, invoices, receipts and messages.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request an explanation or correction.
- If you do not agree, apply to the Rent Tribunal with your documentation.
- Follow the authority decision; if necessary, decisions can be enforced through the Enforcement Authority.
Help and support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) — information and e-services
- Riksdagen — laws and regulations (Jordabalken)
- Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) — enforcement and collection