Viewings: Tenant Rights in Sweden

As a tenant in Sweden it is important to know the rules for viewings and when the landlord or the broker needs access to your home. This guide explains how laws and good practice regulate advertised viewings, key handling, and your right to privacy. You will get practical advice on how to prepare, which questions to ask, and how documentation can help in disputes. The information also points to where you can turn for help if you feel your rights are being violated in connection with viewings in Sweden. Read on for concrete steps to follow, examples of what is reasonable to request, and what you can do if viewings take place without your consent. The guide also covers deadlines, information you should save, and when it may be appropriate to contact the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority.

What applies to viewings?

Many aspects of tenancy are governed by the Land Code (Jordabalken, Chapter 12 on rent) and by established practice. The landlord normally may not intrude into your home without proper grounds and reasonable notice.^[1]

• You have a right to privacy and reasonable notice before a viewing.
• Viewings should be announced in good time and take place at agreed times when possible.
• Keys must not be handled or handed out without your consent or a clear agreement.
• Document dates, times and who was present during the viewing.
• Repairs and viewings are separate matters; check who is responsible for which costs.
• Additional fees in connection with viewings are uncommon and should not be charged without a clear agreement.

What to do if viewings occur without your consent?

If viewings are carried out without your consent or without reasonable notice you should first document what happened and then contact the landlord in writing. If you do not get a response you can turn to the Rent Tribunal for adjudication.^[2]

• Document the incident with photos, dates and times.
• Contact the landlord in writing and request an explanation or compensation if needed.
• Keep all messages and written requests as evidence.
• If the matter is not resolved you can apply for adjudication at the Rent Tribunal or seek enforcement through the Enforcement Authority if there is a judgment.^[3]

Practical advice before a viewing

Plan ahead and communicate clearly. Decide what information you want to share, which areas are private, and whether representatives may bring external visitors. Request written information about time, attendees and how keys will be handled.

• Request written information about the viewing time and participants.
• Limit which private areas may be shown if you need to protect personal belongings.
• Keep a record of contacts and agreements related to the viewing.
• If you feel uncertain, ask for a contact person or details about the broker's identity.

FAQ

Is the landlord allowed to enter without my permission?

Usually no. The landlord must have reasonable grounds and normally give notice. Emergency situations such as water leaks may allow immediate entry.

How much notice must I receive before a viewing?

There is no exact statutory time limit in all cases, but reasonable notice and agreement are the practice. Note down date and time for your own security.

What do I do if viewings continue despite my refusal?

Document everything, send a written protest to the landlord and consider applying for adjudication at the Rent Tribunal.

How to

1. Save evidence: take photos and save text messages, e‑mails and timestamps.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and request an explanation or change of routines.
3. If no solution is given, contact the Rent Tribunal for information on how to proceed.
4. When there is a decision or judgment, if necessary apply for enforcement via the Enforcement Authority.
5. Keep your documentation organized for better support in any dispute.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Tribunal and e‑services (domstol.se)
• Land Code (Chapter 12, Rent) – legislation and explanation (riksdagen.se)
• Enforcement Authority – enforcement information (kronofogden.se)

1. [1] Land Code (Jordabalken, 12 kap. Hyra) - riksdagen.se
2. [2] Rent Tribunal - information and e‑services - domstol.se
3. [3] Enforcement Authority - enforcement and guidance - kronofogden.se