Tenant: who pays when lease is extended or ended in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you may face questions about who pays when a lease is extended or ends. This guide explains how responsibility for costs is often divided between tenant and landlord, what the law says about repairs and maintenance, and which steps you can take if a dispute arises. We cover common situations such as the deposit, repairs after moving out, and costs for extending a contract. The information is tailored for those without a legal background and shows practical advice on documentation, contacting the rent tribunal, and when to seek help. The goal is to give clear action steps so you can act confidently in your housing situation.
What applies?
In Sweden, matters regarding residential rent are primarily governed by the Code of Land (Jordabalken) Chapter 12, which describes the rights and obligations of the tenancy. [1] The landlord's and tenant's responsibilities can differ depending on what is stated in the agreement, who caused the damage, and whether the defect concerns basic standards or normal wear and tear. In case of disagreement, the rent tribunal can review the dispute. [2]
Common cost responsibilities
- Pay the deposit (deposit) and get it returned when the agreement ends, if no deductions are made.
- Be responsible for repairs that the tenant caused (repair), but not for normal wear and tear.
- Keep documentation and evidence (evidence) that shows the condition at move-in and move-out.
- Follow formal requirements, such as giving written notice or submitting an HN1 application to the rent tribunal (form).
When can the landlord be charged?
The landlord usually bears the cost for defects relating to the property's basic standard, such as heating, water or major structural faults. If damage is due to the landlord's lack of maintenance, the tenant can request remedial action without paying. If there is disagreement about who should pay, you can apply for review by the rent tribunal or request enforcement via the Enforcement Authority if a decision exists. [1][3]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays the repair after I move out?
- If the damages exceed normal wear and tear and are due to the tenant's negligence, the landlord may deduct the cost from the deposit or demand compensation. If it is normal wear and tear, the landlord is responsible.
- Can the landlord demand payment to extend the lease?
- A landlord cannot arbitrarily add fees beyond what was agreed or what the law allows; special fee conditions must be clear in the lease agreement.
- What do I do if we cannot agree on costs?
- Document everything, contact the rent tribunal for review and consider using their forms or e-services to submit an application.
How to
- Document the property's condition with photos and an inventory list at move-in and move-out.
- Keep receipts for repairs and communications about the deposit (deposit).
- Contact the landlord in writing and request a clear specification of any costs (form).
- If you do not reach a solution, turn to the rent tribunal for review or advice (contact).
- Follow up on decisions from the rent tribunal and, if necessary, enforce via the Enforcement Authority (court).
Key takeaways
- Always document the property's condition to protect your rights.
- Send formal requests in writing and keep copies.
- Seek help early from the rent tribunal if you cannot agree.
