Tenant: settlement and enforcement in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, questions about settlement and enforcement can feel stressful and technical. This guide explains in plain language what settlement and enforcement mean for you, what rights you have regarding maintenance and repairs, and what steps you can take if a dispute arises. We briefly describe when a landlord can request enforcement, which deadlines often apply and how the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) and the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may be involved. The goal is to give practical advice so you can act wisely, protect your rights and know when to seek help from authorities or legal counsel.
What do settlement and enforcement mean?
A settlement is an agreement between a tenant and a landlord where both parties reach a voluntary resolution to a dispute without a court judgment. Enforcement means that a judgment or decision is executed, often with the help of the Enforcement Authority if a party does not comply with an agreement or judgment.
When can the landlord request enforcement?
Common situations where enforcement may become relevant are if rent is not paid, if the tenant refuses to move after termination, or if a court decision is not followed. Before enforcement, landlords often seek resolution through the Rent Tribunal or try to reach a settlement directly with the tenant.
- Unpaid rent or debt (rent, arrears) — the landlord may demand payment or termination.
- Application to the Rent Tribunal or other filings (form) — often a step before judgment.
- Judgment or decision not followed (eviction, court) — may lead to enforcement via the Enforcement Authority.
Roles: Rent Tribunal and Enforcement Authority
The Rent Tribunal reviews disputes about tenancy relationships and can recommend settlement or make decisions. If a party does not comply with a decision, the Enforcement Authority can carry out enforcement, such as eviction or distraint.[2][3]
What applies to maintenance and repairs?
The landlord is responsible for ensuring the dwelling is habitable under the Swedish Land Code, chapter 12 (tenancy law). This means necessary repairs and maintenance should be carried out by the landlord, and the tenant should report defects in writing when they occur. If the landlord does not fix serious defects, you may be entitled to a rent reduction or to have the work done and deduct the cost from the rent in some cases.
How to document defects
- Take photos and record the date for each defect (evidence, record).
- Send a written defect report to the landlord and keep copies (form, notice).
- If the landlord does not remedy serious defects, you can report to the Rent Tribunal or request action (repair, maintenance).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord force me into a settlement?
- No, a settlement must be voluntary. You can refuse and seek review at the Rent Tribunal or court instead.
- What happens if I cannot pay the rent and the landlord requests enforcement?
- The landlord can apply for termination and then enforcement; you should contact the Enforcement Authority or seek advice to find solutions and avoid eviction.
- Which law regulates the landlord's maintenance obligations?
- The maintenance and repair obligations are regulated in the Swedish Land Code, chapter 12, which describes tenancy rights and obligations.
How to
- Gather evidence: take photos, keep receipts and save all messages (evidence).
- Send a written defect report or respond to demands in writing and keep copies (form, notice).
- Contact the Rent Tribunal for advice or to file an application if you cannot reach a settlement (call, contact).
- If there is a judgment or decision not followed, contact the Enforcement Authority for information about enforcement (court, eviction).
Key takeaways
- Documentation is often decisive in tenancy disputes.
- Contact the Rent Tribunal early to avoid unnecessary escalation.
