Tenant Rights for Pets in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may face questions about pets, house rules and neighbour disturbances. This guide explains what is commonly allowed in rental agreements, how to document problems such as smells or noise, what demands a landlord may make and when you can seek help from the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The text gives practical steps to prevent conflicts, what to keep as evidence and how to communicate with the landlord and neighbours constructively. The information is intended for ordinary residential tenants in Sweden and explains legal terms simply so you can act securely and correctly. Follow the advice here to avoid misunderstandings and prepare for any legal proceedings.

What applies to pets?

In many cases pets are regulated by the lease or house rules attached to the dwelling. An explicit ban in the contract can apply, but the landlord must also show that a ban is reasonable in the specific case and follow the provisions of the Swedish Land Code regarding tenancy.^[1] If a landlord intervenes due to disturbances, the measures should be proportionate and balanced against the tenant's right to use the home.

Handle neighbour disturbances and documentation

Start by talking to the person causing the disturbance and inform the landlord in writing about the problem. Save all messages, dates and times of disturbances and collect photos or audio recordings if relevant. Good documentation makes it easier if the matter needs to be tried by the Rent Tribunal.^[2]

• Keep photos, audio recordings and dates for disturbances.
• Contact the landlord in writing and keep copies.
• Request a written decision about any rules or exceptions in the contract.

What happens at a warning or termination?

If the landlord gives a warning or terminates the contract, formal requirements and deadlines must be followed. The Rent Tribunal often examines whether the termination is objectively justified and whether the tenant had the opportunity to remedy defects. Enforcement may involve the Enforcement Authority if an eviction is decided.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord ban pets completely?

In some cases a ban can be in the lease, but bans must be proportionate and weighed against the tenant's right to reside.

What should I document in case of disturbances?

Save dates, times, messages, photos and any witness statements to support disturbances.

When should I contact the Rent Tribunal?

If dialogue with the landlord does not help, you can apply to the Rent Tribunal to have the dispute reviewed or to get a legal assessment.

How to

1. Contact the landlord in writing and describe the problem clearly.
2. Save all documentation: date, time, photos and conversations.
3. Request a written decision or proposed measure from the landlord.
4. If no solution is reached, apply to the Rent Tribunal and prepare your documentation for review.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal and case information
• Swedish Land Code (tenancy law) — legislation and interpretation
• Enforcement Authority — enforcement and eviction

1. [1] Riksdagen.se - Swedish Land Code, Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se - Rent Tribunal and e-services
3. [3] Kronofogden.se - Enforcement and eviction