# How Do Rental Agreements Work During Renovations in Sweden? *28 juli 2026* > Understanding how rental agreements function during renovations is crucial for both tenants and landlords in Sweden. This guide clarifies your rights and responsibilities. ## Introduction: Renovations and the Rental Agreement Undergoing renovations in your rented home can be challenging, and it's important to understand how your rental agreement is affected during these periods. Whether it's a major reconstruction or a minor refresh of the property, specific rules and principles govern the relationship between tenant and landlord. This article provides an in-depth look at how rental agreements function during renovations in Sweden, focusing on tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and how to best navigate these situations. ## Tenant Rights During Renovations When a landlord plans or carries out renovations that impact your dwelling or the property at large, you as a tenant have certain fundamental rights. These rights are designed to protect you from unreasonable disturbances and ensure that your living situation does not significantly deteriorate. ### Right to Information Under Swedish law, tenants have the right to be informed well in advance about planned renovations that may affect their home. This includes details about the timeline, scope, and expected disturbances. A lack of information can, in some cases, entitle you to compensation. ### Right to Rent Reduction (Hyresreduktion) If renovations lead to significant inconveniences – such as noise, dust, limited access to common areas, or if parts of your apartment become unusable – you may be entitled to a temporary rent reduction. The amount of reduction depends on the severity of the disturbance and its duration. It's crucial to document the disturbances and actively request a rent reduction from your landlord. ### Right to Compensation In certain situations, if your property is damaged during renovation work due to negligence by the contractor or landlord, you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to report the damage immediately to the landlord. ### Right to Refuse Non-Essential Renovations in Your Own Apartment If the renovation concerns your own apartment and is not essential for the building's maintenance or safety, you generally have the right to refuse interventions you do not consent to. However, landlords may have the right to perform necessary maintenance work. This is an area where rental agreement renovation clauses can become complex. ## Landlord Responsibilities During Renovations The landlord's responsibilities during renovations are multifaceted. They are not only responsible for carrying out the work correctly but also for minimizing disturbances for residents and complying with applicable laws and agreements. ### Responsibility for Information and Consultation The landlord has a clear responsibility to inform tenants well in advance. This includes consulting on timing and methods to minimize disruptions. Good communication is key to a smooth process. ### Responsibility for Disturbances and Inconveniences The landlord is obligated to ensure that renovation work does not cause unreasonable disturbances. If the disturbances are extensive, the landlord has a responsibility to offer compensation, such as a rent reduction or, if absolutely necessary, temporary accommodation. ### Responsibility for Damages If property is damaged due to renovation work, the landlord (or their contractor) is responsible for compensating for the damage. The landlord also has a responsibility to ensure the work is carried out safely to prevent accidents. ### Responsibility for Restoration After renovations that have affected an apartment, the landlord has a responsibility to restore any damage or disorder that occurred during the work, unless specifically agreed otherwise. ## Rental Negotiation During Renovations When renovations are planned or underway, situations may arise that require negotiation between tenant and landlord. This can range from rent reductions to compensation for damages or temporary housing. ### When to Negotiate? You should consider negotiation if: * The renovation causes significant and prolonged disturbances. * Your property suffers damage. * You are forced to move out temporarily and incur extra costs. * The landlord fails to meet their obligations for information or action. ### How to Negotiate? 1. **Document everything:** Keep all correspondence, take photos of damages, note disturbances (date, time, type of disturbance). 2. **Contact the landlord in writing:** Clearly describe the issue and state the actions or compensation you seek. 3. **Refer to the rental agreement and legislation:** Cite your rights under rental law and any clauses in your rental agreement. 4. **Be realistic:** Aim for a solution that is reasonable for both parties. 5. **Seek help if needed:** If negotiations fail, contact the Tenants' Association (Hyresgästföreningen) for advice and support. ## FAQ: Common Questions About Rental Agreements During Renovations ### ### Can I refuse a renovation in my apartment? Generally, you cannot refuse necessary maintenance work required for the building's condition, safety, or function. However, if the renovation is more extensive, not directly necessary, and causes significant disturbances, you may have the right to object or demand specific conditions. It's always best to discuss this directly with your landlord and possibly seek advice. ### ### How much can the rent be reduced during renovations? There is no fixed percentage for rent reduction. The amount is assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the severity of the disturbance, its duration, and how much it affects your ability to use the apartment. Minor disturbances might warrant a small reduction, while extensive renovations making parts of the apartment unusable could lead to a significant reduction. ### ### What happens if my property is damaged during renovations? If your property is damaged due to renovation work, you should immediately report it in writing to your landlord. The landlord, or their contractor, is usually responsible for compensating for the damage. Document the damage with photos and keep any receipts for repairs. ### ### Do I have to move out during a renovation? In most cases, you do not have to move out. The landlord is responsible for minimizing disturbances. Only in exceptional circumstances, where the renovation makes the apartment uninhabitable, might the landlord offer temporary relocation. If you are forced to move out due to renovations (not due to your own actions), you may be entitled to compensation for additional costs. ### ### How do I know if a renovation is necessary? Necessary renovations typically include maintenance required to preserve the building's condition, safety, or function, such as replacing plumbing, roof repairs, or facade work. If you are unsure whether a renovation is necessary, you can ask the landlord for an explanation or consult an independent party or the Tenants' Association.