# Landlord Refuses to Repair – Your Rights and Legal Steps *Vera Sjögren* *3 augusti 2026* > When your landlord refuses to repair defects in your apartment, you have legal rights. Learn how to document the issue, escalate the matter, and claim compensation under Swedish rental law. If your landlord refuses to repair defects or faults in your apartment, it is crucial to know that you have strong legal protection. A landlord's repair obligation is a fundamental part of Swedish rental law, and if they fail to fulfill this duty, you can take several steps to ensure the problem is resolved. This guide walks you through each step to protect your rights. ## Understanding Your Landlord's Repair Obligations Under Swedish rental law, landlords are legally responsible for maintaining the apartment in habitable condition. This includes everything from water damage and leaking pipes to inadequate heating, electrical faults, and other significant defects. The landlord's repair obligation applies regardless of what your lease states – it is a right that cannot be negotiated away. It is important to distinguish between normal wear and tear and actual faults. If a light bulb breaks because you dropped it, that is your responsibility. However, if the heating does not work or there is moisture damage, it is the landlord's duty to fix it. ## Step-by-Step Guide When Your Landlord Refuses to Repair ### Step 1: Document the Problem Thoroughly The first and most important action when a landlord refuses to repair is to document the issue. Take detailed photographs or videos showing the defect from multiple angles. Note the date, time, and a description of what is wrong. If the problem affects your health or safety – such as moisture damage, poor heating, or electrical faults – document this especially carefully. Save all communications from your landlord, including emails and text messages where they refuse or ignore your repair requests. This documentation becomes crucial if you need to escalate the matter. ### Step 2: Send a Written Repair Request If you have not already done so, send a formal written repair request to your landlord. Use email or regular mail – never rely on verbal communication alone. In your request, you should: - Describe the problem clearly and specifically - Attach photographs or videos - Set a reasonable deadline for repair (typically 1-2 weeks for urgent issues) - Reference the landlord's legal repair obligations Keep a copy of this request. If the landlord does not respond or explicitly refuses, you have already begun building a strong case. ### Step 3: Send a Follow-Up Reminder with Extended Deadline If your landlord does not respond to your first request, send a reminder after 1-2 weeks. In this follow-up, be more formal and clearly state that you expect a response within a specific timeframe – for example, 5-7 business days. Mention that you are aware of their legal obligations and that you will take further action if the problem is not addressed. ### Step 4: Contact Tenant Organizations Tenant organizations like [Hyresgästföreningen](https://www.hyresgastforeningen.se/) are valuable resources when a landlord refuses to repair. If you are a member, they can provide legal advice and help you draft formal letters to your landlord. They can also represent you in negotiations or disputes. Even if you are not a member, they can often provide basic guidance. These organizations can help you understand what is reasonable to demand and what timeframes are legal for different types of repairs. ### Step 5: Request a Written Explanation Send a formal letter asking your landlord to provide a written explanation for why they refuse to repair. This explanation can later be used to demonstrate that their refusal is unfounded or that they are breaching their legal obligation. Most landlords will avoid explicitly saying "no" to a legitimate repair in writing, which is already a victory for you. ### Step 6: File a Complaint with the Rental Board If your landlord continues to refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Board (Hyresnämnden) or equivalent authority in your region. This is a free or low-cost process where a neutral party reviews the case. You present your documentation, and the board makes a binding decision. To do this, you will need your documentation, copies of all communications, and a clear description of the problem and what you are requesting (repair and/or financial compensation). ### Step 7: Claim Financial Compensation If the repair is not completed, you can often claim financial compensation for: - Reduced enjoyment of the apartment (rent reduction) - Costs for temporary housing if the apartment is uninhabitable - Costs for repairs you arrange yourself (in certain cases) - Compensation for suffering or health problems caused by the defect What a tenant can demand from a landlord varies depending on the severity and duration of the problem. A minor defect lasting a few days may result in a small rent reduction, while a heating failure lasting several months could warrant substantial compensation. ### Step 8: Legal Action as a Last Resort If the Rental Board does not resolve the issue or if the landlord refuses to comply with the board's decision, you can take legal action in court. This is typically the last step and is recommended only for serious cases. Contact a rental law attorney or tenant organization for guidance. ## Reasonable Repair Timelines Repair timelines depend on the severity of the problem: - **Urgent issues** (no heating, no hot water, safety hazards): Should be addressed within 24-48 hours - **Important issues** (leaks, moisture, electrical faults): Within 1-2 weeks - **Minor issues** (broken light, small crack): Within 1-2 months If repairs take longer than reasonable, you can already begin claiming rent reduction. ## Summary When your landlord refuses to repair, it is essential to act systematically and document everything. By following these steps – from documentation to formal complaints – you can ensure your rights are respected. A landlord's repair obligation is a non-negotiable part of rental law, and you should never accept living in an apartment with significant defects. ### Frequently Asked Questions ### Can a landlord refuse to repair if it is my fault? No, a landlord cannot refuse to repair significant defects regardless of the cause – it is their legal obligation. However, they may be able to require you to pay for repairs if you caused the damage intentionally or through gross negligence. ### How long can I refuse to pay rent if the landlord refuses to repair? You cannot completely refuse to pay rent, but you can claim a rent reduction corresponding to the loss in value. It is important to document this and file a complaint with the Rental Board to get an official decision. ### What does it cost to file a complaint with the Rental Board? Filing a complaint with the Rental Board is typically free or very inexpensive. The cost varies by region, but it is never expensive compared to taking legal action in court.