Tenant Rights for Leaks and Mold in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, leaks and mold can cause worry, health risks and disputes about who must pay for repairs. This guide explains in plain language the maintenance and repair obligations, how to document damage, which deadlines matter and when to turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. We provide practical steps to report faults to your landlord, gather evidence and protect your rights without legal jargon. The aim is for you to know which actions you can take immediately, which documents strengthen your case and how the process typically works in Sweden. The text also explains which measures are quick to carry out and when written demands or formal applications are required.

What applies to leaks and mold?

According to the Code of Land (Chapter 12 on rent) both the landlord and the tenant have responsibilities for different parts of maintenance. The landlord is normally responsible for fixing leaks and remediating mold caused by the building's condition, while the tenant must take care of the dwelling and report faults in time.^[1]

Steps to report problems

• repair: Report the damage in writing to the landlord and request a plan for remedial action.
• record: Take photos, keep receipts and write a timeline of when problems were discovered.
• notice: Keep copies of emails and written demands; send by registered mail if needed.
• contacts: Contact tenant advice services if you are unsure about the next step.

When can the Rent Tribunal help?

If the landlord does not remedy serious defects you can apply to the Rent Tribunal to review the rent or demand remedial action. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes between tenants and landlords and can assess different claims about responsibility and compensation.^[2]

If the case needs to be pursued further

If a decision needs to be enforced or if rent issues lead to collection the Enforcement Authority may become involved. In some cases compensation claims may also go through the courts; always seek current information before acting.^[3]

Key takeaways

• Document damage carefully with photos and dates.
• Report faults in writing and keep copies of demands.
• Turn to the Rent Tribunal if the landlord does not fix serious defects.

FAQ

Who is responsible for remediating mold?

The landlord is usually responsible if the mold is caused by the building's condition; you should report it in writing and document the problem.

Can I reduce my rent if nothing is fixed?

Yes, in some cases rent can be reduced through the Rent Tribunal if the defect reduces the use of the dwelling.

What happens if the landlord ignores my report?

If the landlord does not fix the defect you can turn to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal review.

How to

1. time: Contact the landlord immediately in writing and state when the problem was discovered.
2. record: Document damage with photographs, dates and descriptions.
3. repair: Request a written timeline for repair and follow up if nothing happens.
4. notice: Send a formal notification and consider applying to the Rent Tribunal if a dispute arises.
5. court: If necessary follow decisions and enforce via the Enforcement Authority or court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal — domstol.se
• Code of Land (1970:994) — riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority — kronofogden.se

1. [1] Riksdagen — Code of Land (1970:994), Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal
3. [3] Kronofogden — kronofogden.se