Who pays when tenant claims rent back in Sweden

Maintenance & repair duties 3 min read · published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Sweden you may sometimes discover that you have paid too much rent or been charged incorrect fees. In such cases many want to know who is actually responsible for repaying the amount and how the process works. This guide explains what it means to claim back rent, what evidence you need, which deadlines apply and when you can turn to the Rent Tribunal or the Enforcement Authority for help. The language is simple and aimed at tenants without a legal background, and contains practical steps to pursue a claim in Sweden as well as costs and risks you should be aware of.[1]

What does claiming rent back mean?

Claiming rent back means that you as a tenant request repayment of amounts paid incorrectly or charged without legal basis. Common reasons are incorrectly stated rent in the contract, double billing or fees that were not agreed. A complaint typically starts with a written request to the landlord; if you do not reach a solution, the matter can be examined by the Rent Tribunal.[2]

In most cases, written documentation gives better chances to succeed in a dispute.

Who can be required to pay?

  • If the landlord has charged too high rent at the start of the agreement or after a change.
  • If incorrect fees or deposits must be repaid.
  • If a third party has invoiced incorrectly and responsibility has been transferred.

How does the process work?

Always start by contacting the landlord in writing and request an itemized account of the fee. If you do not reach an agreement you can submit an application to the Rent Tribunal for review.[2] If the Rent Tribunal issues a decision that is not complied with, the decision can be enforced via the Enforcement Authority.[3]

Respond to legal letters within stated deadlines to avoid losing rights.

How to collect evidence

  • Keep receipts, contracts and payment statements.
  • Take photos of damages or defects that affected the rent level.
  • Save all written communication with the landlord.
Thorough documentation increases your chances of success in a dispute.

When to contact the Rent Tribunal or Enforcement Authority

Contact the Rent Tribunal if you and the landlord cannot agree or if you need a formal decision on repayment.[2] If the decision is not enforced voluntarily the Enforcement Authority can assist with collection and enforcement.[3]

Contact the Rent Tribunal for rent and contract disputes before proceeding to the Enforcement Authority.

FAQ

Can I claim rent back if the apartment was in worse condition?
Yes, if the defect affected the rent level you may be entitled to repayment or reduced rent.
How long do I have to claim rent back?
Limitation periods and deadlines vary; act promptly and seek advice from the Rent Tribunal.[2]
Do I have to pay court costs if I lose?
In some cases costs may arise; seek advice before legal action.

How to

  1. Collect evidence and document the amount you claim back.
  2. Contact the landlord in writing and request repayment.
  3. Apply to the Rent Tribunal if you do not reach an agreement.[2]
  4. If a decision cannot be enforced, turn to the Enforcement Authority for collection.[3]

Help and support / Resources

  1. [1] Riksdagen - Land Code (Chapter 12)
  2. [2] Domstol.se - Rent Tribunal forms
  3. [3] Enforcement Authority - Enforcement and collection

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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.

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