Tenant rights for subletting in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may wonder when and how you can sublet or share your home with roommates. This guide explains what is needed to get the landlord's consent, what reasonable conditions a landlord may set, and what rights you have if a dispute arises. We cover the difference between permitted subletting and unauthorized letting, how to document agreements and communication, and when the Rent Tribunal may review cases. The text also explains risks, common consent conditions, and practical steps to apply for permission or challenge a decision. The language is straightforward and intended for tenants without a legal background.

What does the law say?

Rules on residential leases are found in the Land Code (Jordabalken), Chapter 12, which governs when subletting requires the landlord's consent and what counts as reasonable rent^[1]. In short, the landlord may require reasons for the letting and set reasonable conditions, but cannot impose arbitrary bans that conflict with the law.

When is the landlord's consent required?

The landlord's consent is usually required when you do not continue to live in the property yourself or when several people share housing and someone sublets. Common reasons and conditions landlords may impose include:

• Written permission or a clear agreement between tenant and landlord.
• Financial requirements such as a deposit or that the rent not exceed a reasonable amount.
• Requirements that the property is used as a residence and not for commercial activities.
• Limits on who may live there, number of occupants or house rules for order and safety.
• Contract durations and possibilities to terminate subleases in case of breaches.

In case of dispute or refusal

If the landlord refuses without valid reason you can apply to the Rent Tribunal for review or request that an existing agreement be approved. The Rent Tribunal provides information and forms for applications^[2]. In cases of termination or eviction, the Enforcement Authority may become relevant for enforcement and collection^[3].

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's permission to sublet?

Yes, in most cases the landlord's consent is required if you do not continue to live in the property yourself or do not have explicit permission in the lease.

What can the landlord require in a consent?

The landlord can ask for a written agreement, information about who will live in the property and reasonable financial conditions, but not arbitrary bans.

What if the landlord says no without good reason?

You can consider applying to the Rent Tribunal to have the matter reviewed and should document all communication.

Can I share housing with roommates without informing the landlord?

No, permanently sharing housing or subletting parts of your apartment usually requires consent; short visits are normally allowed.

How to

1. Read your lease carefully to see whether subletting or roommates are regulated there.
2. Request written consent from the landlord and state the rental period, rent amount and who will live there.
3. Draft a clear sublease agreement that documents responsibilities, payments and house rules.
4. If the landlord refuses, consider applying for review by the Rent Tribunal and attach all documentation.

Key takeaways

• The landlord's consent is often required and should be in writing.
• Keep agreements, messages and receipts as evidence.
• The Rent Tribunal can adjudicate disputes about subletting.

Help and support

• [1] Riksdagen — Land Code (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
• [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
• [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and collections

1. [1] Riksdagen — Land Code (Jordabalken), Chapter 12
2. [2] Domstol.se — Rent Tribunal and forms
3. [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and collections