Tenant rights for temporary housing in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, you may sometimes require temporary housing, for example during major repairs or when an apartment is uninhabitable. This article explains the typical conditions, what the landlord is responsible for regarding maintenance and repairs, and the steps you as a tenant can take if you need to complain, claim compensation, or seek assistance. We cover who pays for measures, how to document defects, and when matters can be brought before the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority. The goal is to provide clear, practical advice so you can feel secure and know how to act if your housing is affected.

What applies to temporary housing?

Temporary housing can become relevant if your regular home cannot be used due to damage or major repairs. The basic rules on rent and tenancy are in the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken), chapter 12, which governs tenants' and landlords' rights and obligations^[1]. If the defect renders the dwelling uninhabitable, the landlord may need to offer replacement housing or reduce the rent until the issue is fixed.

Landlord responsibilities

• Rectify serious defects that threaten safety or the dwelling's function.
• Ensure heating, water, and functioning electricity.
• Carry out repairs within a reasonable time when faults occur.
• Inform the tenant about planned works that affect the dwelling.

What you can do as a tenant

Document problems with photos and written messages to the landlord. Request written confirmation of when the defect will be fixed and keep all receipts if you need to arrange temporary housing yourself. If the landlord does not act, you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for review or advice.^[2]

Frequently asked questions

What counts as temporary housing?

Temporary housing refers to replacement accommodation when your regular home cannot be used, for example due to major repairs or damage.

Who pays for temporary housing?

In many cases, the landlord is responsible for costs if the dwelling becomes uninhabitable due to defects the landlord should remedy.

What do I do if the landlord does not fix the issue?

You can collect evidence, send a formal demand, and ultimately apply for a review by the Rent Tribunal or seek help through advisory services.

How to

1. Contact the landlord in writing and describe the defect, attach photos and state dates.
2. Keep receipts if you arrange temporary housing yourself and request compensation in writing.
3. If the landlord does not act, consider applying for a review at the Rent Tribunal.^[2]
4. If a decision needs enforcement, the Enforcement Authority can assist with execution.^[3]

Key takeaways

• Always document defects with dates and photos.
• Communicate in writing with the landlord to create a traceable record.
• Seek help from the Rent Tribunal or Enforcement Authority if needed.

Help and support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal and information on Domstol.se
• Jordabalken and statutes on Riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority information at Kronofogden.se

1. [1] Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken) on Riksdagen.se
2. [2] Rent Tribunal information on Domstol.se
3. [3] Enforcement Authority - enforcement and information