Rights and Obligations for Tenants
Renting housing as a student can feel uncertain, especially if it’s your first time or if you are new to Sweden. At the same time, it’s important to know that as a tenant you always have both rights and responsibilities. When both parties understand what applies, the risk of misunderstandings and conflicts is reduced.
This page provides an overview of what is good to know when renting a home – whether you are renting a sublet or living as a lodger.
Your right to a secure home
As a tenant, you have the right to a secure home that meets your needs throughout your entire tenancy. This means that basic functions such as heating, water and electricity work, and that what is included in the agreement is actually in place when you move in.
You also have the right to know what you are paying for. The rent must be clearly stated in the agreement and it must be clear what is included, for example furniture, electricity, internet or other costs. If anything is unclear, you have the right to ask questions and receive answers before you say yes.
Your responsibility to take care of the home
When you rent a home, you are responsible for using it with care. This means you are expected to look after the home as if it were your own, and to avoid unnecessary wear or damage.
If something breaks during your time there, it is important to notify the landlord in good time. Minor wear and tear is normal, but damage caused by negligence may be your responsibility. It is therefore a good idea to document the condition of the home when you move in, for example by taking photos.
Tenancy agreement – your most important protection
A written tenancy agreement is one of the most important safeguards when renting a home. The agreement clarifies what you and your landlord have agreed upon and reduces the risk of different interpretations later on. A tenancy agreement should include, among other things:
- Who you are renting from and their contact details Which home or room is being rented out
- The amount of rent, any deposit and how it is paid
- How long the agreement is valid and how termination works
- What is included in the rent (furniture, electricity and water or internet)
- Furniture and inventory list as well as documentation of any damages and deficiencies
If anything in the agreement feels unclear, it is wise to have someone read through it before you sign. You can also contact Akademisk kvart for general guidance and explanations of common wording.
Rent and payment
As a tenant, you are obliged to pay the rent on time as agreed. This applies even if you are, for example, away travelling for a period. You should always be able to show that you have paid the rent, for example through a receipt or bank transfer. This protects both you and the landlord if questions arise later.
In order to offer housing that students can afford, Akademisk kvart applies its own terms for rent-setting. It is therefore important that the rent stated in the listing matches what you subsequently agree upon in the contract. Akademisk kvart does not allow any hidden fees or deviations from these rules.
Where to turn with questions?
If you are unsure about what applies in your housing situation, you are always welcome to contact Akademisk kvart. We can provide general guidance, explain common terms and help you understand what is important to consider as a tenant.
If you are, for example, unsure about what is included in your rent, how an agreement should be interpreted or what applies upon termination, we can help you sort it out at a general level.
You can reach us at info@akademiskkvart.se.
We do not offer legal advice, but can help you navigate and, if needed, refer you to the right body, for example a student union or other advisory organisation.
