Tenant: Who Pays for a Lodger in Sweden
Living together — with a lodger or in shared housing — often changes who is responsible for rent, bills and repairs. As a tenant in Sweden you may need to share payment responsibility, write an addendum to the lease, or handle damages that occur when several people live in the same home. This guide explains in simple terms which rules apply, how to document agreements and what steps you can take if a dispute arises. You will get practical advice about responsibility for rent, utilities, deposits and repairs, and where to turn for help in Sweden. The goal is to give tenants clear, useful actions so that the situation becomes fair and predictable for all parties.
What applies when you live with a lodger or in shared housing?
Rules about rent and responsibility are found in the Tenancy chapter of the Swedish Code and are interpreted by the Rent Tribunal when needed.[1][2] Who pays what depends on the contract and written agreements. If one person is named as the tenant on the lease, that person usually has the main responsibility, but practical solutions can be agreed between the parties.
Who pays rent and bills?
- The tenant named on the contract is normally responsible for the full rent unless otherwise agreed.
- A lodger can pay a share of the rent or rent separately through an addendum agreement.
- Electricity, internet and subscriptions are often regulated by agreement; clearly state who pays what.
- Minor repairs may fall on the person who caused the damage, while major maintenance often rests with the landlord.
Agreements, deposits and termination
Write a simple addendum that clarifies the rent amount, payment method and responsibility for damages. Deposits or advance payments should be documented in writing. For termination, check the notice periods in the lease and follow statutory rules for termination.
What to do in a dispute
- Contact the Rent Tribunal for mediation or a ruling if you cannot agree.
- Gather documentation: agreements, payment receipts and photographs as evidence.
- For claims of unpaid rent, the landlord can apply for a payment order with the Enforcement Authority.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need the landlord's permission to take in a lodger?
- In most cases the landlord's consent is required, especially if the lodger results in long-term use or more people than allowed by the lease.
- Who pays for damages that occur?
- The person who caused the damage may be liable. Take photos and document damages immediately.
- Can a lodger be evicted more easily than the tenant?
- A lodger without their own contract generally has weaker legal protection than the person on the lease.
How to
- Write a written agreement that clearly states rent and responsibility.
- Allocate costs for rent and bills in the agreement so everyone knows the terms.
- Document payments and maintenance with receipts and photos.
- In case of dispute, apply to the Rent Tribunal for assessment or mediation.
Key takeaways
- Always have a written agreement when someone moves in as a lodger.
- Specify who pays rent and bills in the agreement.
- Keep records of payments and damages continuously.
Help and support
- Rent Tribunal on Domstol.se
- Laws (Tenancy chapter) on Riksdagen.se
- Enforcement Authority for enforcement
