Tenant Right to Temporary Housing in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, you may in some situations be entitled to temporary housing when your home becomes uninhabitable due to, for example, mold, serious moisture damage or safety defects. This guide explains the landlord's obligations, which evidence and deadlines are important, and the steps you can take to obtain support or compensation. The text covers how to report problems to the landlord and the Rent Tribunal, what temporary housing options may be relevant and how to document damage. The aim is to provide clear, practical information so you can act quickly and confidently when your home is affected.
What does the law say?
Residential tenancy relationships are regulated in the Land Code (Chapter 12), which sets out the landlord's duty to keep the apartment in a habitable condition and remedy serious defects.[1] If defects threaten health or safety, the tenant may in some cases be entitled to immediate measures or alternative housing.
In most cases, tenants are entitled to basic standards of habitability.
When can you get temporary housing?
Temporary housing may become relevant when damage or defects make the dwelling uninhabitable or dangerous in the short term. Common situations include:
- Mold or serious moisture damage that renders the apartment uninhabitable.
- Major safety defects that threaten health or life.
- Fire, water damage or other acute damage that requires evacuation.
Contact the landlord in writing as soon as you notice a serious defect.
What can you do? (Practical steps)
Follow these practical steps to protect your rights and obtain support if temporary housing is needed:
- Contact the landlord immediately and request written confirmation that the matter has been received.
- Document damages with dates, photos and written descriptions.
- Send a formal request for action or temporary housing and keep copies of all communication.
- If you cannot reach a solution, apply to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication of the matter.[2]
- Keep receipts for all additional costs so you can claim compensation if necessary.
Always respond to requests and deadlines to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I claim reimbursement for temporary housing costs?
- Yes, if the landlord is considered responsible you may be entitled to reimbursement for reasonable temporary housing costs and additional expenses.
- How long does a case at the Rent Tribunal take?
- Times vary, but prepare documentation and apply as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.
- What happens if the landlord does not offer alternative housing?
- You can apply to the Rent Tribunal for fines or other measures, and ultimately the Enforcement Authority may enforce decisions.[3]
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing and request action.
- Take photos and note dates and descriptions of the problem.
- Keep receipts for hotel or alternative housing and other additional costs.
- Notify the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement.[2]
- If necessary, enforcement can be carried out by the Enforcement Authority after a judgment or decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- Land Code and legislation at riksdagen.se
- Information about the Rent Tribunal at domstol.se
- Enforcement Authority — kronofogden.se
