Tenant Maintenance and Repairs in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you have both rights and responsibilities when it comes to maintenance and repairs in your home. This guide explains clearly what typically falls under the landlord's responsibility, what you as a tenant may need to fix, and how costs can be shared for minor damage. It also describes how to document defects, which deadlines may apply, and when it is appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)[2] or the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden)[3]. The aim is to provide practical steps so you can protect your housing rights, get necessary repairs done and avoid unnecessary conflicts with the landlord.
What the landlord is responsible for
The landlord is usually responsible for ensuring the dwelling is in usable condition at move-in and for major repairs and property maintenance during the tenancy. There are legal rules about the landlord's obligations in the Land Code (Jordabalken, Chapter 12) that govern many issues of standard and repairs[1].
- Maintain the building's structural elements and installations in working order.
- Repair faults that affect heating, water or electrical safety.
- Fix damage caused by normal wear and tear in the building.
What tenants should do
As a tenant you are expected to handle minor upkeep, report defects in writing and follow the rules in the tenancy agreement. Keep receipts, document damage with photos, and inform the landlord promptly to avoid misunderstandings.
- Report defects in writing and state when the problem occurred.
- Document damage with dated photos and save receipts.
- Follow instructions in the tenancy agreement and offered service channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for a leaking tap?
- If the leak is due to normal wear and tear, the landlord is usually responsible, but minor adjustments caused by tenant use may be the tenant's responsibility.
- Can I withhold rent if repairs are delayed?
- Withholding rent is a sensitive measure and should only be done after advice and documentation; contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance before you act.
- What do I do if the landlord does not fix serious defects?
- Document the defect, send a written request for repair and consider applying to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach a solution.
How to
- Write a clear defect report and send it in writing to the landlord with the date and description.
- Allow the landlord a reasonable time to fix the issue and note response times and any commitments.
- If no action is taken, contact the Rent Tribunal for information on mediation and formal applications.
- Keep all correspondence and receipts in case of a dispute or court application.
Help and support / Resources
- Domstol.se - Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden)
- Riksdagen.se - Land Code (Jordabalken, Chapter 12)
- Kronofogden.se - Swedish Enforcement Authority
