---
title: "Municipal Rent Guarantee in Sweden 2026: How Your Kommun Can Vouch for You"
author: "Esther Asmundsson"
authorUrl: "https://bofrid.se/en/articles/authors/EstherAsmundsson"
datePublished: "2026-06-23T11:00:00.000Z"
dateModified: "2026-06-23T10:32:33Z"
description: "Refused a first-hand lease despite an income? Guide to the municipal rent guarantee in Sweden 2026 – how the kommun acts as guarantor, who qualifies and how to apply."
categories: ["Guider", "Hyresgäst"]
canonical: "https://bofrid.se/en/articles/municipal-rent-guarantee-sweden-2026"
language: "en"
---

# Municipal Rent Guarantee in Sweden 2026: How Your Kommun Can Vouch for You

You have an income and manage your finances – yet you're still refused a first-hand lease because of the landlord's requirements. It's a common situation, especially for those with temporary employment, a payment remark or income support. A **municipal rent guarantee** can be the solution. Here's how it works in 2026.

## What is a municipal rent guarantee?

A municipal rent guarantee means the **municipality (kommun) acts as guarantor** for you as a tenant. The kommun promises the landlord to cover the rent if, for some reason, you don't pay, for a certain period. This reassures the landlord and can turn a no into a yes.

It's a tool to help people who **can afford the rent but still don't meet the landlord's requirements** – not a benefit, but a security.

## Who can get a rent guarantee?

The rules are set by each kommun, but generally the guarantee targets you if you:

- Have **sufficient income** to manage the rent on an ongoing basis.
- Are still **refused a lease** due to e.g. type of employment, a payment remark or a lack of previous housing references.
- Are seeking a **first-hand contract** (not a sublet).

The guarantee is normally given for a period (often one or a few years) and can get you an ordinary lease with full security of tenure.

## How to apply

1. **Contact your kommun.** Search the municipality's website for "hyresgaranti" or ask social services/the housing unit.
2. **Show your finances.** You usually need to prove income and show you can manage the rent.
3. **Find a home** where the landlord accepts a municipal guarantee.
4. **The kommun assesses** and issues the guarantee to the landlord if you meet the requirements.

## Rent guarantee, deposit and guarantor – the difference

It's easy to mix up the terms:

| Security | Who provides it | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Municipal rent guarantee | The kommun | Guarantor so you get a first-hand lease |
| Deposit | You (refundable) | Cover damage/unpaid rent, see our [deposit guide](/en/articles/rental-deposit-sweden-rules-amount-2026) |
| Private guarantor | An individual (e.g. a parent) | Personal guarantee for your rent |

## Strengthen your application with a strong housing profile

Whether or not you apply for a guarantee, a strong profile carries weight with landlords. A complete **housing CV and Bostadsmerit** can make the difference between a yes and a no. Read our guide on the [housing CV](/en/articles/housing-cv-merit-guide-tenants). If you also need help with the rent, you may be entitled to [housing allowance](/en/articles/housing-allowance-sweden-2026-how-much-and-how-to-apply).

## Frequently asked questions

**Do all municipalities offer a rent guarantee?**
No. It varies – contact your kommun to see what applies where you live or want to live.

**Does a rent guarantee cost anything?**
The guarantee itself is normally free for you, but you're of course responsible for paying your rent.

**Do I get an ordinary contract?**
Yes, the aim is for you to get a first-hand lease with full security of tenure.

## Summary

A municipal rent guarantee lets the kommun vouch for your rent so you can get a first-hand lease despite being refused by a landlord. It's aimed at those who can pay the rent but don't meet the landlord's requirements. Contact your kommun – and strengthen your [housing CV](/en/articles/housing-cv-merit-guide-tenants) at the same time. [Search available rentals on Bofrid](/sok-bostad).