When Can a Landlord Report Changes? – Tenants Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, it can feel uncertain when a landlord wants to change terms or announce repairs. This guide explains what a landlord may report, which deadlines apply and how you as a tenant can document and respond. We cover rights under the Swedish Land Code, how to request remedy of defects and when you should turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority to resolve a dispute in Sweden. Always save written communication, receipts and photos — they are important evidence in a dispute and can speed up the process if you need official help.
What does the law say?
In Sweden, residential rent and the landlord's obligations are regulated in the Land Code, chapter 12, which describes both maintenance obligations and what applies to rent increases [1]. The landlord should inform about material changes that affect your living situation and give reasonable time for implementation. If a change concerns repair or disturbance, the landlord should normally inform in advance and propose times for the work.
The Rent Tribunal often decides disputes about rent and changes.
What landlords usually need to notify
- Rent increase (rent): written information about amount and date.
- Major repairs (repair): when work starts and estimated duration.
- Planned inspections or access (entry): date and purpose.
- Changes to lease terms (notice): new contract terms or addenda.
Always ask for written confirmation when the landlord gives verbal notices.
What you can do as a tenant
If you believe a change is unreasonable or maintenance has not been carried out correctly, start by documenting the issue and contact the landlord in writing. If you cannot reach a solution, you can apply for review at the Rent Tribunal or get help to demand repairs. For unpaid amounts or enforcement, the Enforcement Authority may become relevant [2][3].
Always respond to formal demands and summonses within stated deadlines to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- Must the landlord notify a rent increase in advance?
- Yes, the landlord usually must provide written notice of a rent increase with reasonable advance notice and indicate from which date it applies.
- What should I do if the landlord does not meet maintenance obligations?
- Document the defect, request a written action plan from the landlord and contact the Rent Tribunal if the issue is not remedied.
- When should I contact the Rent Tribunal?
- Contact the Rent Tribunal if you and the landlord cannot agree on rent, repairs or other significant matters.
How to
- Document everything (document): take photos, save messages and receipts.
- Contact the landlord (contact): request written information and proposals for a solution.
- Send a formal request (notice): state what should be fixed and a reasonable timeframe.
- Apply to the Rent Tribunal (court): if you cannot agree, submit an application.
- Follow up on enforcement (payment): if a decision requires enforcement, the Enforcement Authority may be involved.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Land Code and legislation - riksdagen.se
- Rent Tribunal and forms - domstol.se
- Enforcement and debt collection - kronofogden.se
