Tenant Rights: Pets and Rules in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, questions about pets and house rules can quickly become stressful. This guide explains what documents you may need, how common house rules are applied and how to raise disturbances with your landlord or neighbours. We cover what you should document, which rules often appear in tenancy agreements and when it may be appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The aim is to give concrete advice to resolve conflicts, protect your rights as a resident and reduce the risk of misunderstandings. The language is simple and the steps practical so you can act quickly if problems arise. The text also explains how to request written replies, which photos and dates help, and when it is good to seek legal advice.
What applies?
Tenancies in Sweden are governed by the Land Code, Chapter 12, and by the terms of your tenancy agreement. In practice, house rules can often be included in the contract, but general bans must be reasonable and proportionate.[1]
- Always save dates and times for disturbances or damage.
- Take clear photos or videos and mark them with dates.
- Keep short logs of calls, emails and meetings with the landlord or neighbours.
- Keep receipts for repairs, veterinary visits or other costs related to the matter.
Detailed documentation increases your chances in disputes.
When to contact landlord or authority?
First raise the issue in writing with the landlord and request a reply. If the problem persists, the Rent Tribunal can examine disputes between tenant and landlord, and in some cases decisions can be enforced via the Enforcement Authority.[2] [3]
- Send a clear email or letter describing the problem and attach documentation.
- Request a written confirmation from the landlord about action and a timeframe.
- If you cannot agree, consider applying to the Rent Tribunal or seeking support from a tenants' association.
Always respond to written demands within the stated time to avoid enforcement.
Frequently asked questions
- Am I allowed to have pets in my apartment?
- It depends on the tenancy agreement and house rules. An explicit ban in the contract usually applies, but a total ban must be reasonably designed.
- What do I do about repeated disturbances from neighbours?
- Document the disturbances, notify the landlord in writing and keep replies. If nothing helps, you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for review.
- Which documents should I keep?
- Keep photos, videos, date and time stamps, receipts for costs and copies of written communication with the landlord or neighbours.
How to
- Check your tenancy agreement for house rules and any clauses about pets.
- Document disturbances with dates and evidence before you contact the landlord.
- Send a formal written message to the landlord and request a reply.
- Gather all documentation and consider applying to the Rent Tribunal if the issue is unresolved.
- If a decision needs enforcement, the Enforcement Authority may be the next step.
Help and Support / Resources
- Land Code (1970:994) - Riksdagen
- Rent Tribunal and e-services - Domstol.se
- Enforcement and debt collection - Enforcement Authority
