Who Pays for Personal Use by Tenant in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, the question of who pays when a landlord uses the apartment for personal use can feel uncertain and stressful. This guide explains what "personal use" means, what costs may arise and what rights you as a tenant have under Swedish law. We cover common scenarios — temporary personal use, permanent repossession and what happens with notice and security of tenure — and practical steps you can take if affected. You will get advice on documentation, deadlines and how to contact the Rent Tribunal to review compensation or tenure issues. The guide also shows where to find official forms and support in Sweden.
What does 'personal use' mean?
Personal use means that the landlord or someone in the landlord's household uses the dwelling themselves instead of renting it out. Personal use can be short-term or intended as permanent repossession, and the purpose often affects which rules apply.
Personal use means the landlord or a relative uses the dwelling themselves.
Who pays costs?
In general, the landlord is responsible for maintenance and repairs needed to keep the dwelling habitable. If the landlord requires you to move or the landlord's personal use causes costs, questions of compensation may arise. Rules on rent and notice are found in the Swedish Land Code chapter 12.[1]
- The landlord normally pays costs for repairs due to wear or the building's condition.
- If the tenant's personal use causes damage, the tenant may need to compensate the landlord.
- In a dispute, you may need to submit an application to the Rent Tribunal to obtain compensation or review.
Always contact the Rent Tribunal or an advisory service before accepting financial demands from the landlord.
What to do if the landlord gives notice for personal use
Request the notice in writing, check the reasons and the final day of the notice period. Save all correspondence and document any costs or damages as soon as possible.
Keep copies of all messages, receipts and photographs.
- Check the notice period and the final day to vacate the dwelling.
- Document the living conditions with dates and photographs.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request an explanation or an alternative solution.
- If you cannot reach an agreement, submit HN1 or another application to the Rent Tribunal.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What counts as personal use?
- Personal use is when the landlord or a relative uses the dwelling instead of renting it out.
- Can I get compensation if I must move?
- Yes, in some cases you can claim compensation for moving costs or damages through the Rent Tribunal.
- What happens to security of tenure?
- Security of tenure can be affected if the landlord has a lawful right to repossess the dwelling for personal use.
How to
- Note important dates and read the notice carefully.
- Collect evidence: photographs, receipts and written communication.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request documentation of the reasons for personal use.
- Complete and submit the relevant application to the Rent Tribunal (e.g. HN1).
- Participate in negotiation or oral hearing if possible.
- If you win, apply for enforcement at the Enforcement Authority if the decision is not followed.
Key takeaways
- Document everything and keep receipts and photos.
- Keep track of deadlines and respond in writing.
- Seek review at the Rent Tribunal if you cannot agree.
Help and Support / Resources
- Land Code (ch.12) - riksdagen.se
- Rent Tribunal and forms - domstol.se
- Enforcement Authority - kronofogden.se
