Tenant's Grounds for Termination in Sweden
Saying goodbye to a lease or interpreting a landlord's termination requires both knowledge and documentation. This guide helps the tenant in Sweden understand which grounds may justify termination from your side or the landlord's side, which documents and evidence are often needed, and what rights you have when maintenance and repairs are lacking. We cover practical steps to document faults, contact the landlord in writing, and when it is appropriate to turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority for help. The text uses clear language and provides concrete advice so you can act confidently and protect your rights as a tenant in Sweden.
What grounds can apply?
A valid ground for termination may be serious deficiencies in the apartment's condition, repeated disturbances, or the landlord failing to fix issues that affect the dwelling. Rental law is found in Chapter 12 of the Swedish Code of Land (Jordabalken), which is central to the tenant's rights.[1]
Which documents do you need?
- Description of the defect and the date the problem was discovered.
- Photographs or video showing damage or defects.
- Written correspondence with the landlord, including demands for remedy.
- Receipts for costs you incurred because of the defect.
How to document faults and maintenance?
Document date, time and what shows the problem. Save messages and always report defects in writing (email or registered mail) so you have proof that you informed the landlord. If repairs are not made you may need to show that you gave the landlord reasonable time to fix the issue.
Contacting the landlord
Begin by describing the problem clearly and state which action you want the landlord to take. Set a deadline for remedy and state potential consequences, such as rent reduction or termination if the problem is not fixed.
When to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority
When the parties cannot agree, the Rent Tribunal may adjudicate the dispute. For enforcement of decisions, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) can be involved. The Rent Tribunal provides forms and e-services for applications.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What counts as sufficient evidence for a defect?
- Photographs, written defect reports and receipts for costs are common evidence that the Rent Tribunal values.
- Can I withhold rent if a repair is not done?
- Withholding rent is risky without legal support; consult or apply to the Rent Tribunal before acting.
- How quickly must I act after discovering the defect?
- Report the defect as soon as possible and give the landlord reasonable time to fix the problem.
How to
- Write down the problem with the date and time of discovery.
- Take photographs or video showing the damage (repair).
- Send a written defect report to the landlord and request remedy.
- If nothing happens, apply to the Rent Tribunal or seek advice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Domstol.se – Rent Tribunal
- Kronofogden.se – enforcement and information
- Riksdagen.se – Swedish Code of Land, Chapter 12
