Tenant mistakes about rent per m² in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, questions about how rent per square meter relates to housing standard and who is responsible for maintenance can be confusing. This guide helps you recognize common mistakes — for example assuming higher rent always means better condition or failing to document defects on move-in. We also explain what maintenance and repair obligations mean, what steps you can take for defects, and how to preserve evidence for a possible dispute. The goal is to provide practical advice that makes it easier to communicate with your landlord, protect your rights in Sweden, and make informed decisions about housing costs.

What applies to rent per m² and standard?

In Sweden many issues about rent and standard are regulated by the Code of Land (Jordabalken) and case law from the Rent Tribunal. Rule of thumb: the rent often reflects both area and standard, but there are limits and requirements for fairness under the law^[1]. Understand who is responsible for ongoing maintenance and which defects are considered the landlord's responsibility.

Common mistakes

• Assuming that high rent always means better standard.
• Failing to document damages or defects at move-in.
• Believing that the landlord is always responsible for all maintenance.
• Waiting too long to complain and missing deadlines.
• Paying higher rent without a written agreement or receipt.

What to do when repairs are needed?

Always start by documenting the defect thoroughly and notifying the landlord in writing. If the landlord does not fix the defect you can apply for review at the Rent Tribunal or request a rent reduction. If enforcement is needed, the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) is involved^[2].^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord increase the rent per m² without informing me?

Rent increases must be reasonable and follow agreement or negotiations; major changes can be reviewed by the Rent Tribunal^[2].

Who is responsible for repairs?

Generally, the landlord is responsible for ongoing maintenance, but minor upkeep may fall to the tenant depending on the agreement. See the Code of Land for details.^[1]

How do I appeal if the landlord does not fix defects?

Write to the landlord, collect evidence and apply to the Rent Tribunal with the HN1 form or equivalent e-service; for enforcement contact the Swedish Enforcement Authority.^[2][3]

How to

1. Document the problem: take photos, note dates and descriptions.
2. Notify the landlord in writing and request action within a reasonable time.
3. If nothing happens: apply to the Rent Tribunal with the relevant evidence.
4. If enforcement is needed: contact the Swedish Enforcement Authority for next steps.

Key takeaways

• Always document damages and communication.
• Understand who is responsible for maintenance in your agreement.
• Use the Rent Tribunal for disputes about rent or standard.

Help and Support / Resources

• Code of Land (Jordabalken), Chapter 12 on Rent at Riksdagen
• Rent Tribunal and forms on Domstol.se
• Swedish Enforcement Authority — enforcement information

1. [1] Riksdagen — Code of Land (Jordabalken) (1970:994), Chapter 12 on Rent
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and e-services
3. [3] Swedish Enforcement Authority — Information on enforcement