Tenant rights for overcharged rent in Sweden

What to do if you discover overcharged rent

First: check your lease and previous rent notices. Compare what you have paid with the contract and what was agreed for the apartment's standard. In Sweden rent and tenancy matters are primarily governed by the Land Code (Jordabalken, Chapter 12), which can be decisive when you claim a refund.^[1] Document all payments with receipts or bank statements and save emails or messages with the landlord.

When and how to claim a refund

Review the following steps before sending a formal demand to the landlord.

• Gather evidence: receipts, bank statements and correspondence.
• Write a clear written demand with amount, period and why the amount is incorrect.
• Follow up with the landlord and request a written explanation or repayment.

If you do not reach agreement

If the landlord does not accept the claim you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for a decision. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes between tenant and landlord and provides information and e-services via domstol.se.^[2] In some cases, the matter may proceed to enforcement via the Enforcement Authority if a repayment decision is made.^[3]

What can be reclaimed

You may request repayment of overpaid rent, incorrect fees and, in some cases, interest on wrongly paid amounts. If the landlord made repeated errors additional compensation may be applicable. Note that deadlines can affect the right to reclaim funds.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to claim overpaid rent?

It depends on the situation but keep evidence and act as soon as you discover the error; statutory limitation periods may apply.

Do I have to go to the Rent Tribunal?

Not always. Try to resolve it directly with the landlord first. If you cannot agree, the Rent Tribunal can examine the case.

Can I get interest on the amount I claim back?

In some cases interest may be due on the repayment, especially if the error existed for a long time.

How-to

1. Document payments and collect all relevant correspondence.
2. Send a clear written demand to the landlord specifying amount and deadline.
3. If no solution: submit an application to the Rent Tribunal or seek legal advice.
4. If repayment is decided but not paid, consider enforcement through the Enforcement Authority.

Help and Support / Resources

• Riksdagen — legislation and the Land Code
• Domstol.se — information about the Rent Tribunal and e-services
• Enforcement Authority — enforcement and collection

1. [1] Riksdagen — Land Code (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal information and e-services
3. [3] Enforcement Authority — enforcement and collection