Tenant Rights in Sweden: Operating Costs

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to understand how operating costs are allocated and when the landlord can demand payment for electricity, water, heating or broadband. This guide explains your rights in plain language and shows which documents and evidence are useful if you want to review charges or dispute them. You will get practical advice about what is usually included in the rent, when separate accounting of costs is allowed, and how to proceed in case of disagreement. The information is based on Swedish law and the Rent Tribunal's practice so that you can act confidently and effectively when operating costs affect your housing expenses in Sweden. Here you also get step-by-step instructions for contacting the landlord and the Rent Tribunal. Advice applies to both private and municipal landlords.

What are operating costs and how are they charged?

Operating costs often cover electricity, water, heating and property-related services such as broadband when explicitly stated in the lease. If the contract is missing or wording is unclear, the issue is often decided based on custom and interpretation according to the Land Code.^[1] Typically, costs must be clearly specified and measurements or receipts must be available for allocation.

The landlord's and tenant's responsibilities

• The landlord may charge shared operating costs according to the lease (payment).
• The tenant is responsible for their own electricity and subscriptions if stated in the contract (payment).
• Repairs and maintenance of the property's heating system often fall to the landlord (repair).
• Meter readings and allocation require documentation and receipts (record).
• The landlord must inform about changes in the charging method and provide documentation on request (notice).

What to do if you receive an incorrect charge?

Start by requesting a written specification and copies of the landlord's documentation. Record dates, amounts and any communication. If you cannot agree, you can apply for a review at the Rent Tribunal. The Rent Tribunal resolves disputes between tenants and landlords and provides information on how to apply and what information is needed.^[2]

Frequently asked questions

Can the landlord require a separate payment for broadband?

Yes, if it is stated in the lease or if the parties have agreed in writing on a subscription that is not included in the rent.

What do I do if the landlord does not show receipts?

Request documentation in writing and inform that you may take the matter to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach a solution.

Can I lose my apartment for disputing a charge?

Retaliation is not permitted. If the landlord attempts eviction without proper cause, it is handled by the Enforcement Authority and can be appealed.^[3]

How to

1. Gather evidence: save receipts, meter readings and all communication (record).
2. Contact the landlord in writing and request a detailed specification (notice).
3. If no agreement is reached, submit a formal application to the Rent Tribunal with copies of your materials (form).
4. In case of eviction risk, contact the Enforcement Authority for information about the procedure and your rights (eviction).

Key takeaways

• Always keep written records of communications and receipts.
• Request documentation whenever operating costs are itemised separately.
• The Rent Tribunal handles disputes over charging and procedures.

Help and Support / Resources

• Domstol.se – Rent Tribunal and practical information
• Riksdagen.se – Land Code, Chapter 12 (rent)
• Kronofogden.se – About eviction and enforcement

1. [1] Riksdagen.se
2. [2] Domstol.se
3. [3] Kronofogden.se