When Can a Landlord Enter — Tenants in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden it is important to know when the landlord has the right to enter your home and which deadlines apply. This guide explains the difference between consent, planned repairs, emergency situations and statutory exceptions under the Swedish Land Code. You will get concrete advice on how to document problems, what notices the landlord must give and what notice period is reasonable to obtain access for maintenance. We go through the rules for inspections, heating system service and suspected damage or risk, as well as how to protect your privacy and when you can request compensation or contact the Rent Tribunal for review.[1]
When can the landlord enter?
As a general rule the landlord needs your consent to enter your apartment. Exceptions exist in emergencies, to carry out necessary repairs or if a specific agreement exists in the lease. What counts as reasonable notice depends on the situation: emergencies require immediate entry while planned maintenance normally requires notice in good time.
Common reasons the landlord may need access
- Emergency hazards (safety) like leaks or fire require immediate entry.
- Planned repairs and maintenance (repair) that affect safety or function.
- Inspections according to agreement or with reasonable notice (entry).
- Service or installation visits (notice) when the landlord has given written notice.
If the landlord enters without a valid reason it may constitute an invasion of your privacy or a breach of contract. Always document time, reason and any witnesses.
What you should do as a tenant
- Document the entry or repairs with photos, dates and descriptions (evidence).
- Communicate in writing with the landlord and save all correspondence (notice).
- If in disagreement contact the Rent Tribunal for review or information (court).
- Seek advice from advisory bodies before taking legal action.
Frequently asked questions
- Can the landlord enter without my permission?
- Only in emergencies that threaten life or property, or if you have explicitly given permission. For other matters, notice is usually required.
- How much notice must the landlord give?
- The law does not state an exact deadline for non-urgent matters; the landlord should give reasonable notice depending on the nature of the action, often 24–48 hours for planned visits.
- What do I do if the landlord enters unlawfully?
- Document the event, gather evidence and contact the Rent Tribunal for guidance or a review of the dispute.
How to
- Document the entry: take photos, note time and witnesses (evidence).
- Send a written request to the landlord asking for an explanation and that future visits are notified in advance (notice).
- If the problem continues apply to the Rent Tribunal with relevant documents and form HN1[2].
- If enforcement is required the Enforcement Authority may become involved (Kronofogden)[3].
Key takeaways
- Always save written communication and receipts.
- Request written notice for planned visits.
Help and Support / Resources
- Riksdagen: Legislation and the Land Code
- Domstol.se: Rent Tribunal and forms
- Kronofogden: Enforcement and information
