Tenant: who pays for late reports in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden, situations may arise where a change — for example a change of income, insurance or address — is reported late. How such late reports affect responsibility and costs depends on what changes are involved, what the lease says and which legal rules govern residential rent. This guide helps you understand when the landlord or tenant can be held financially responsible, what evidence helps in a dispute and what steps you can take to protect your rights as a tenant in Sweden. Read on for practical actions, deadlines and where to find forms and support.

What applies to late reports?

If a change that affects the lease is reported late it can create disagreements about who bears the cost. In many cases responsibility is decided based on the contract, damage and whether someone acted negligently. For residential rent, the Jordabalken is relevant, particularly Chapter 12 on rent ^[1]. If the landlord has made an incorrect charge because of late information, the tenant can request correction, and if the tenant has caused extra costs by failing to report important information on time the landlord may in some cases claim compensation.

Common situations

• Late report of income change affecting benefits or rent level.
• Incorrect address change preventing receipt of notices.
• Delayed report of damage or need for repair.

If it concerns maintenance or repairs it is important to distinguish between what is the tenant's responsibility and what the landlord must do. Maintenance obligations can be found in the lease or in general principles about the condition and habitability of the dwelling.

How are costs assessed?

Costs can be assessed based on actual damage, reasonable repair cost and any impact on third parties. If the landlord needs to hire a service provider or repairer because a tenant did not report a change on time the landlord may in some cases claim compensation, but the claim must be reasonable and documented.

FAQ

Can the landlord demand compensation if I reported late?

Yes; in some cases the landlord can demand compensation for documented, reasonable costs that arose due to a late report.

What if the delay was caused by an emergency?

If the delay was caused by an emergency this can affect an assessment of responsibility and reasonableness, but it is important to communicate and document the circumstances as soon as possible.

Where do I turn in case of disagreement?

In disputes about rental matters you can turn to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) for review or seek advice from municipal tenant advisory services, and in some cases enforcement can proceed via the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) ^[2][3].

How to

1. Document the change: save emails, messages and receipts.
2. Inform the landlord in writing as soon as you can and request confirmation.
3. If you cannot reach agreement, contact the Rent Tribunal for review or advice ^[2].
4. Follow any decisions and, if needed, use the Enforcement Authority for execution ^[3].

Help and support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal on Domstol.se
• Riksdagen.se: Jordabalken Chapter 12
• Enforcement Authority: enforcement and payment orders

1. [1] Riksdagen.se
2. [2] Domstol.se
3. [3] Kronofogden.se