Sweden Landlord-Tenant Laws: Complete Guide for Property Owners

Sweden has one of the world's most regulated rental markets, primarily governed by the Tenancy Act (Land Code Chapter 12). Recent reforms in 2026 have significantly tightened the rules regarding the secondary (subletting) market.

1. Rent Control: The Utility Value System

Sweden uses the Utility Value System (Bruksvärdessystemet). Rents are not set by the market but by comparing the apartment’s standards and location to similar properties, often negotiated collectively with the Swedish Union of Tenants (Hyresgästföreningen).

• Rent Increases: Annual adjustments are result of these collective negotiations.
• Presumption Rent: New constructions (last 15 years) may have higher, cost-based rents before merging into the utility value system.

2. Security Deposits

While the Tenancy Act doesn't specify a maximum, the market norm is 1 to 3 months' rent. Deposits must be returned promptly at the end of the tenancy, minus documented damages exceeding "normal wear and tear."

3. Subletting and the 2026 Reform

To combat the "black market" for rentals, Sweden has introduced stricter subletting controls:

• Permission: Tenants MUST obtain explicit written consent. Housing cooperatives can no longer arbitrarily refuse reasonable subletting requests, but the duration is strictly monitored.
• Enforcement: Subletting without permission is grounds for immediate eviction of the primary tenant.

4. Eviction and Security of Tenure

Tenants in Sweden enjoy a strong security of tenure (besittningsskydd). Tenancies are typically indefinite and difficult for landlords to terminate without specific legal grounds (e.g., significant arrears or criminal activity in the dwelling).

5. Maintenance and Habitability

The landlord is responsible for maintaining the "minimum acceptable standard" including heating, hot water, and safety. Landlords are also traditionally responsible for periodic interior maintenance (repainting, appliance updates) every 10–15 years.