Who pays for short-term rental in Sweden for tenants

Tourist letting & short‑stay 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

As a tenant in Sweden, it is important to know who pays when you or someone else uses your home for short-term rental. Responsibility can be affected by the lease agreement, the condominium association's rules or local regulations. Here we simply explain which costs can arise for repairs, damages, deposits, and how the landlord or you can be required to pay compensation. We go through common situations, how to document damages and what steps a tenant can take to protect their rights. The information is aimed at those living in rental apartments or condominiums in Sweden and who want clear advice before or after short-term rental. You will also get practical tips on communicating with the landlord and how the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) can help in disputes.

When does responsibility arise?

Liability for costs during short-term rental often depends on who actually caused the damage or cost and what the lease says. If guests cause damage, the landlord may demand compensation from the sublessor or from the registered tenant depending on the situation. Always check what your lease and the association rules state.

Always save email and message conversations about check-in and check-out.

Common costs and who may pay

  • Repairs for damage after guests, for example furniture or surface damage.
  • Cleaning beyond normal condition at move-out or after a rental period.
  • Return or partial deduction from deposit if one existed.
  • Costs for lost keys or lock replacement.
Documentation like photos and receipts makes it easier to show what happened.

How to document and communicate

Follow these simple tips to protect yourself as a tenant and to make disputes about who should pay easier to resolve.

  • Always take clear photos before and after rental.
  • Keep receipts for repairs and cleaning services.
  • Notify the landlord in writing about damage as soon as you discover it.
  • Use a written agreement for subletting when possible.
Response times and written documentation affect your chances in a dispute.

Disputes, the Rent Tribunal and enforcement

If you and the landlord cannot agree, the matter can be tried at the Rent Tribunal or in court. The Rent Tribunal handles disputes about tenancy relationships and can give recommendations or decisions. For recovery of money, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may be relevant.[2][3]

The Rent Tribunal is often the first step to resolve disputes between tenant and landlord.

Vanliga frågor

Who pays if a guest destroys furniture?
As a rule, the landlord can claim compensation from the person responsible for the rental or from the registered tenant if they knowingly allowed the rental without permission.
Can the landlord deduct from my deposit?
Yes, if a deposit exists the landlord can request deductions for costs substantiated by receipts or documentation.
When should I contact the Rent Tribunal?
Contact the Rent Tribunal if you do not reach a solution and the dispute concerns rent, responsibility or moving out.[2]

How to

  1. Document damages with dates and photos immediately after discovery.
  2. Notify the landlord in writing and request a written response.
  3. Keep all receipts and quotes for repairs.
  4. If you do not reach an agreement, consider applying to the Rent Tribunal.[2]

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] Riksdagen — Jordabalken (12 kap.)
  2. [2] Domstol.se — Hyresnämnden and forms
  3. [3] Kronofogden — Enforcement and debt recovery
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Sweden

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.