Who pays when a tenant reports defects in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden, it can be unclear who is responsible for costs when you report defects in your apartment. This guide simply explains the difference between the landlord's and the tenant's responsibility, which rights can lead to rent reduction or repairs, and what steps you can take if you cannot agree. We also describe when it may be necessary to turn to the Rent Tribunal and what is required to get enforcement or support. The aim is to give clear advice on documentation, communication and timing so that you know how to protect your rights in Sweden. The text also shows practical examples and links to official resources.
What applies?
In Sweden, many rental issues are regulated in the Code of Land (Jordabalken) and practice from the Rent Tribunal. [1] In practice, this means that the landlord is responsible for ensuring that the dwelling meets certain standards and that major defects are normally remedied by the landlord.
Detailed documentation increases your chances in disputes.
Landlord responsibility
- Remedy defects that affect the dwelling's function or safety, such as heating, water and electricity.
- Pay for repairs that were not caused by the tenant's negligence.
- For major defects, rent reduction may be relevant until the fault is fixed.
Save all receipts and take date-stamped photos when you discover the damage.
Tenant responsibility
- Act to limit damage and report faults to the landlord without delay.
- Pay for damage caused by your own actions or negligence.
- Document contact and responses from the landlord for possible future review.
If you cannot agree on responsibility or action, the Rent Tribunal can review the matter. [2] In some cases, a judgment may follow which later needs to be enforced via the Enforcement Authority. [3]
Respond to written communication and keep deadlines to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- What do I do first when I discover a defect?
- Document the damage with dates, photos and any receipts and inform the landlord in writing.
- Can the landlord require me to pay for the repair?
- If the damage was caused by the tenant's negligence, the tenant may have to pay; otherwise the landlord is responsible.
- When should I contact the Rent Tribunal?
- If you cannot resolve the dispute directly with the landlord or if you need a formal review of cost responsibility or rent reduction.
How to
- Document the defect with dates, photos and receipts.
- Inform the landlord in writing and propose a remedy or rent reduction.
- Follow up if no action is taken within a reasonable time and set a clear deadline.
- Apply to the Rent Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement.
- Upon judgment, request enforcement via the Enforcement Authority if the decision is not complied with.
Key takeaways
- Documentation and written communication are crucial when reporting defects.
- The landlord is normally responsible for major repairs affecting the dwelling's function.
- Use the Rent Tribunal if you cannot resolve the dispute yourself.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Rent Tribunal — domstol.se
- Legislation and preparatory works — riksdagen.se
- Enforcement and debt collection — kronofogden.se
