Tenant's Guide: Contact the Tenant Association in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, it can be unclear when to contact the Tenant Association about maintenance, repairs, or substandard conditions in your home. This guide explains in simple terms which duties often fall on the landlord, how to document problems, and when the association can offer advice or support in negotiations and disputes. We cover practical steps to collect evidence, send written defect reports, and contact the Rent Tribunal if the matter is not resolved. The information is intended for common tenancy situations and helps you understand your rights and which authorities may become relevant in Sweden. Please contact local advisers for personal help.
When the Tenant Association can help
The Tenant Association can provide advice when maintenance or repairs are missing, or if you want help negotiating measures and compensation. In Sweden many aspects of tenancy are regulated in the Land Code, chapter 12 on rent.[1]
- Repairs that are not carried out or are delayed.
- Moisture damage, mold, or heating problems affecting the dwelling.
- Written defect reports and responses from the landlord.
- Documentation such as photos, receipts, and correspondence.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success.
How to prepare the case
Prepare by collecting clear photos, dates of defect reports, and any receipts for costs. Write a short chronology of what happened and which actions you requested from the landlord. If there are safety risks or serious health issues, contact the Tenant Association promptly for advice.
- Collect photographs, notes, and receipts as evidence.
- Always send a written defect report to the landlord and keep a copy.
- Record any expenses you have incurred due to the defect.
Keep all communication with the landlord.
When to take the matter to the Rent Tribunal or Enforcement Authority
If the matter is not resolved informally, the Tenant Association may recommend contacting the Rent Tribunal for adjudication or mediation. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes about rent and maintenance.[2] For decisions about payment orders or evictions, the Enforcement Authority may be involved for enforcement.[3]
- Apply for review or submit documents to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement.
- Participate in negotiations or prepare for oral hearings if required.
- In cases of enforcement, the Enforcement Authority is involved according to applicable decisions.
Always respond to formal summons in time to avoid losing rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I always need to go through the Tenant Association to get help?
- No, you can initially contact the landlord directly. The Tenant Association can provide advice and support in negotiations or help if the problem persists.
- How long does it take to get a remedy?
- Times vary depending on the nature of the issue; urgent defects should be remedied quickly while more complex disputes can take weeks or months.
- Do I have to pay for repairs myself first?
- In many cases the landlord is responsible for repairs. Keep receipts if you arrange an urgent fix yourself, as you may be entitled to compensation.
How-To
- Collect evidence: photos, dates, and communication.
- Send a written defect report to the landlord and keep a copy.
- Contact the Tenant Association for advice and negotiation support.
- If the matter persists, consider applying to the Rent Tribunal with necessary documents.
Help and Support / Resources
- Land Code (Chapter 12) on riksdagen.se
- Rent Tribunal and forms on domstol.se
- Enforcement Authority information on kronofogden.se
