What does it mean?
Subletting (andrahandsuthyrning) means a tenant rents out their home to another person. This always requires approval — either from the landlord (for rental apartments) or from the housing association (for cooperatives). Without permission, the original tenant risks losing their contract.
Valid reasons for subletting include studying in another city, temporary work elsewhere, trial cohabitation, or caring for a relative. The landlord cannot refuse without objective reasons if the tenant has legitimate grounds.
Key Points
- Always requires permission from landlord or housing association board
- Valid reasons: studies, work, trial cohabitation, illness, travel abroad
- Without permission, the lease may be forfeited
- Subtenants have limited or no tenant protection (besittningsskydd)
- The original tenant remains liable for rent and maintenance
Practical Tip
Always apply for permission well in advance — in writing. Keep proof of your application. As a subtenant: demand to see the first-hand contract and the subletting permission before signing.
Legal Basis: Land Code Ch. 12, §§ 39–40
Based on content fromBofrid's Knowledge Bank
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