Tenant's Guide: Heat and Hot Water in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, insufficient heat or hot water can quickly become a daily crisis. This guide explains step by step what you as a tenant in a rental can do when heating or domestic hot water works poorly or is absent. We cover what counts as a defect, how to document the problem, which measures you can demand from the landlord and when you can contact the Rent Tribunal or other authorities. The text uses simple language and gives practical advice on communication, deadlines and which forms may be needed. The aim is to help you act quickly and securely to restore a fully functioning home.
What to do first
Start by checking whether the problem affects the whole apartment or only certain radiators or taps. Write down when the problem started, take photos and save any messages with the landlord. Documentation is important if the case later needs to be reviewed by the Rent Tribunal or other bodies [1].
- Notify the landlord in writing and describe the fault carefully (repair).
- Take photos and note dates and times of outages or low temperature (document).
- Request written confirmation that the landlord has received your fault report (contact).
When the landlord does not fix it
If the landlord does not fix the fault within a reasonable time, remind them in writing and state a reasonable deadline for repair. If nothing happens, you can request a rent reduction or submit an application to the Rent Tribunal. In some cases, the Enforcement Authority may also become relevant for enforcement after a decision [1][3].
- Set a deadline in your written reminder (within).
- If you cannot reach agreement, prepare a formal application to the Rent Tribunal (file).
- Collect all documentation that shows the extent of the problem (document).
Rights and legal basis
According to the applicable rules in the Land Code, chapter 12, tenants have the right to a dwelling in good condition and basic heating and hot water are part of this. In disputes, the Rent Tribunal can examine the case and decide on rent reductions or other measures [1][2].
Practical advice before contacting authorities
When you contact the Rent Tribunal or other authorities, attach clear documentation: dates, photos, copies of correspondence and any receipts for purchases made to temporarily solve the problem. Also state which measures you want, for example rent reduction or repair demands.
- Check which forms are required on the court website (form).
- Consider contacting your municipality's consumer or tenant advisory services for support (contact).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What counts as a defect in heating or hot water?
- A defect can be lack of hot water supply, indoor temperature consistently below a reasonable level, or complete absence of heating for an extended period.
- How quickly must the landlord fix the fault?
- It depends on the nature and severity of the fault; written complaint and a reasonable deadline should always be given by the tenant.
- Can I demand a rent reduction?
- Yes, if the standard is reduced, a rent reduction can be requested and will be considered by the Rent Tribunal.
How to
- Document the problem carefully with dates, times and photos (document).
- Notify the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair (file).
- Follow up and note all responses and deadlines.
- Apply to the Rent Tribunal with your documentation if you cannot reach an agreement (file).
- If necessary, take steps for enforcement via the Enforcement Authority after a decision (court).
Help and support
- Riksdagen - Land Code (document)
- Courts - Rent Tribunal and forms (form)
- Enforcement Authority - enforcement (court)
