Tenants disputing reasonable adaptations in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden you may sometimes need to make adaptations in your home for accessibility or health. In other cases the landlord requests adaptations and decides what is reasonable. This guide explains how you can dispute or appeal decisions about reasonable adaptations, which evidence helps, what deadlines apply and how the Rent Tribunal can examine the case. The language is simple and practical so that you as a tenant can act, gather documentation and use the correct forms. We go through step by step how to submit an application, what you can claim in compensation and when the Enforcement Authority may become involved in execution.

What are reasonable adaptations?

Reasonable adaptations concern measures that make housing easier for a tenant, for example for accessibility or special needs. The assessment of what is reasonable follows the rules in the Land Code, Chapter 12 on rent ^[1] and may be affected by cost, duration and who benefits from the measure.

When can you dispute or appeal?

You can challenge a decision when you believe the landlord's assessment is incorrect or if the process has not followed the rules. Common reasons to dispute are:

• Insufficient documentation of need or medical certificates.
• Incorrect calculation of costs and who is responsible for payment.
• Privacy breaches or intrusion when measures require access.
• If the landlord has not followed formal requirements or given a reasonable explanation.

How to prepare your case

• Collect all documentation: medical certificates, photos, cost estimates and correspondence.
• Note deadlines: act quickly when a decision is communicated and follow stated response times.
• Complete the relevant forms and submit an application to the Rent Tribunal if necessary.
• Contact advisory services early if you are unsure about the legal process.

What happens at the Rent Tribunal?

The Rent Tribunal reviews disputes about rent matters and can decide whether an adaptation is reasonable. The process may include written documents and oral hearings. Information and e-services for the Rent Tribunal are available via the courts website ^[2].

On enforcement and the Enforcement Authority

If a judgment or decision must be enforced, the Enforcement Authority may become involved, for example in claims for compensation or restoration of housing. Enforcement involves specific steps and warnings before coercive measures are taken ^[3].

FAQ

How long do I have to appeal?

Deadlines vary depending on the type of decision; check the notice you received and act quickly.

Do I have to pay for adaptations if the landlord requests them?

It depends on who is judged to bear the cost after a reasonableness assessment; documentation is important.

Can the Rent Tribunal provide temporary solutions before a final decision?

In some cases temporary or provisional measures can be discussed, but this often requires prompt contact and documentation.

How to

1. Gather evidence: medical certificates, photos and cost estimates.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and try to reach a solution through dialogue.
3. Fill in and submit the necessary forms to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot agree.
4. Attend hearings or online proceedings when the Rent Tribunal summons you.
5. Keep track of decisions and any appeal deadlines.
6. Follow up enforcement and seek advice if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal on Domstol.se
• Land Code (Chapter 12) on Riksdagen.se
• Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden.se)

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