Background & Purpose
Crime and disorder in residential neighborhoods create fear and insecurity for residents, making it necessary to give landlords stronger legal tools to act against problem tenants.
Proposals & Debate
The government proposed expanding landlords' rights to evict tenants who commit crimes that harm the local environment, tightening rules regarding subtenants and lodgers to prevent abuse, and strengthening controls over how apartments are used. At the same time, the proposal includes better legal protection for individuals subjected to domestic violence, allowing them to take over or keep the rental contract.
The Decision
The Swedish parliament approved the government's proposals, meaning landlords gain extended powers to evict criminals and protect neighborhoods starting in July 2024.
Does this affect you?
- Tenants in multi-family housing: Must follow stricter behavioral rules and risk losing their apartment if crimes are committed in or around the property.
- Landlords and housing companies: Gain extended legal authority to evict disruptive tenants and inspect how apartments are used.
- Domestic violence victims: Receive improved legal opportunities to take over a rental contract or remain in the home after an eviction or separation.
In Practice
- Landlords can terminate rental agreements if a tenant commits crimes that disrupt the local community.
- Tenants are held responsible for ensuring that family members and visitors do not commit crimes in the building.
- Rules regarding lodgers and subtenants are tightened to prevent the unauthorized use of apartments.
- Landlords receive enhanced rights to inspect how apartments are being utilized.
- Victims of domestic violence gain improved legal rights to keep the rental apartment or take over the lease.