# How to Write a Good Sublet Rental Agreement

*Folke Bergström*
*15 juni 2026*

> A clear sublet rental agreement is crucial for a smooth living situation. Learn how to create a legally sound contract.

Renting out a room or a part of your home, also known as subletting or having a lodger, can be a great way to share living costs or generate extra income. To avoid misunderstandings and future conflicts, it is crucial to establish a clear and legally sound **sublet rental agreement**. This document serves as a safeguard for both you as the landlord (the one who owns or rents the property and sublets a part) and you as the lodger (the one renting the room/part). Here, we guide you step-by-step through the process of creating such an agreement.

## Creating a Legally Sound Sublet Rental Agreement

A well-written agreement protects both parties and clarifies the terms of the rental. The following steps will help you create a comprehensive and secure **sublet rental agreement**.

### Step 1: Identify the Parties and the Property

Begin by clearly identifying who is entering into the agreement. Write down the full names, personal identification numbers (or organization numbers if applicable), and contact details for both the landlord and the lodger. Also, specify exactly which part of the property is being rented out (e.g., a specific room, access to the kitchen, bathroom, etc.). If there are common areas to be shared, detail this.

### Step 2: Determine Rent and Payment Terms

State the monthly rent clearly. Specify what the rent includes – for example, heating, water, electricity, internet, and any furnishings. If there is a separate charge for electricity or internet, this must be stated. Also, indicate when the rent should be paid (usually monthly in advance, by the last banking day of the preceding month) and to which bank account. It is also good to specify how and when any rent increases will occur, although this is often regulated by practice and market conditions.

### Step 3: Decide on Rental Period and Notice Period

Is the rental for a fixed term or indefinite? If it's for a fixed term, state the start and end dates. If it's indefinite, Swedish law typically requires one calendar month's notice, but you can agree on a different notice period in the contract. Keep in mind that the lodger generally has stronger tenant protection than might be initially apparent, especially for longer-term rentals. To avoid issues with termination, it's important to regulate this carefully in your **lodger agreement**.

### Step 4: Rules for Common Areas and House Rules

If you share a kitchen, bathroom, hallway, or other areas, it is wise to formulate clear house rules. This can include rules regarding cleaning of common areas, noise levels, smoking, pets, and guests. The clearer these **lodger rules** are, the less risk of conflict.

### Step 5: Responsibility for Damages and Maintenance

Clarify who is responsible for what regarding damages and maintenance. Normally, the landlord is responsible for the property's condition and major repairs, while the lodger is responsible for damages caused by their own negligence or omission. Specify how any damages should be reported and who will cover the repair costs.

### Step 6: Insurance and Address Registration

Inform the lodger that they should have their own home insurance covering personal belongings. As a landlord, you should review your own home insurance to ensure it covers the subletting. Both parties should also be aware of the rules regarding folk registration (address registration). A lodger has the right to register their address if it is a permanent arrangement.

### Step 7: Other Conditions

There may be other conditions relevant to your specific situation. This could include access to laundry facilities, parking, storage space, or specific rules regarding internet usage. Be sure to write down everything you agree upon.

### Step 8: Signing and Copies

Once you have gone through all the points and reached an agreement, the contract must be signed by both the landlord and the lodger. Ensure that both parties receive a signed copy of the **sublet rental agreement**. This is an important step to ensure both have access to the agreed-upon terms.

## Common Questions About Sublet Rental Agreements

### What happens if the lodger doesn't pay the rent?
If the lodger fails to pay the rent on time, you as the landlord have the right to terminate the agreement. It is important to follow the formal termination procedures applicable to subletting. For non-payment, you can apply for eviction through the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden).

### Can I, as the landlord, terminate the contract at any time?
No, not without a valid reason and proper notice. Even though it is a **contract for subletting**, there are rules protecting the lodger, especially regarding tenant protection rights. The termination must be in writing and justified if the lodger requests it.

### What is the difference between a lodger and a guest?
A lodger is someone who rents a part of the property and pays for it, often for an extended period. A guest is someone who temporarily stays over without paying rent and without having their own room or equivalent. The distinction can sometimes be blurry, but if the person stays with you more than temporarily and/or pays for the accommodation, it is likely considered a rental and requires an agreement.

Establishing a clear **sublet rental agreement** is an investment in a good relationship and a secure living situation. By following these steps, you can ensure that the agreement is legally sound and that all terms are clear for both parties.