Are you considering subletting your apartment? Subletting can be a smart way to keep your rental contract during a period when you cannot live in the apartment – whether it's for studies, work abroad, or a trial period of living with a partner.
However, subletting in Sweden is strictly regulated. You need the landlord's approval, correct rent setting, and a legally sound sublease agreement. In this guide, we'll go through everything you need to know: rules, permits, rent, agreements, and how to find a reliable subtenant.
What is Subletting?
Subletting means that you, as the primary tenant, rent out all or part of your apartment to another person – a subtenant. You retain your rental contract with the landlord but take on the responsibility for the person who moves in.
There are two types of subletting:
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Entire apartment: You move out completely, and someone else lives in the apartment.
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Part of apartment (lodger): You continue to live there and rent out a room.
Important: You are still responsible to the landlord for the rent and the condition of the apartment, even if someone else lives there.
Rules for Subletting – What Does the Law Say?
You Must Have Valid Reasons
According to the Swedish Rental Act (Chapter 12 of the Land Code), you must have valid reasons to sublet. Approved reasons include:
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Temporary work or studies in another location
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Trial period of living with a partner
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Extended stay abroad
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Caring for a relative
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Military service
Reasons that are not approved:
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You want to make money on your apartment.
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You have bought a home but want to keep the rental apartment "just in case."
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You don't like the area.
Landlord's Approval Required
You must always apply for permission from your landlord before subletting. The landlord has the right to refuse if:
You lack an approved reason.
The subtenant is deemed unsuitable.
The sublet is for too long.
Tip: Apply in writing and save all communication. If the landlord refuses, you can appeal to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden).
How Long Can You Sublet?
There is no exact time limit in the law, but practice says:
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1–2 years is usually approved for studies/work.
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Longer periods require stronger justification.
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Permanent subletting is never accepted – you risk losing the contract.
How Much Rent Can You Charge When Subletting?
This is one of the most common questions – and misunderstandings. The rule is simple: You can charge your own rent + a surcharge of a maximum of 10-15% for furniture and equipment.
Calculate the Correct Sublet Rent
Your Rent (Base Rent)
SEK 10,000
Unfurnished (0% surcharge)
SEK 10,000
Furnished (15% surcharge)
SEK 11,500
Warning: If you charge too high a rent, the subtenant can demand the difference back – up to two years retroactively. This is called repayment liability.
Sublease Agreement – What Should Be Included?
A written sublease agreement protects both parties. The agreement should include:
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Parties' details: Name, social security number, contact information.
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Apartment address: Full address and apartment number.
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Rental period: Start date, end date, notice period.
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Rental amount: Monthly rent, what is included (electricity, internet, etc.).
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Deposit: Usually 1–2 months' rent.
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Furniture and fixtures: List with condition upon move-in.
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Special conditions: Pets, smoking, parking.
Bofrid tip: Use digital contracts with BankID signing for legal security and easy handling.
Find the Right Subtenant
Create a clear ad: Describe the apartment honestly – size, location, what is included. Use quality images.
Verify the tenant: Check income (employment certificate or study certificate), credit report, and references from previous landlords.
Conduct a viewing: Meet the person. Ask questions about their life situation and why they are looking for accommodation.
Write a contract: Use a legally correct sublease agreement. Sign with BankID.
Document the apartment: Photograph the apartment before moving in. Go through the inventory list together.
Risks of Subletting
Tenant does not pay
You are still liable for payment
Credit check + deposit
Damage to the apartment
You have to pay for repairs
Document condition, require deposit
Illegal subletting
You lose the contract
Always seek permission
Too high rent
Repayment claim
Follow the 10-15% rule
Subletting via Bofrid
Bofrid makes subletting easier and safer.
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Responsible tenants: BankID verification, credit report, criminal record, and income verification.
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Digital contracts: Legally correct agreements with BankID signing.
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Housing merit system: See the tenant's history and reliability.
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Completely free for landlords: No fees or commission.
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Matching: Find serious tenants who are actively looking for accommodation.
Find a verified tenant →
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the landlord have to approve subletting?
Yes, you must always have the landlord's written approval before subletting. If the landlord refuses without a valid reason, you can appeal to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden).
How much rent can you charge when subletting?
You can charge your own rent plus a surcharge of a maximum of 10-15% if the apartment is furnished. If you charge more, you risk repayment claims.
What happens if I sublet without permission?
You risk losing your rental contract. The landlord can terminate you with immediate effect in the event of unauthorized subletting.
What is the notice period for subletting?
Unless otherwise agreed, a one-month notice period applies to the subtenant. Always include the notice period in the contract.
Do I need to pay tax on sublet rent?
Yes, income from subletting is taxable. You can deduct your own rental cost, but the surplus is taxed as capital income (30%).
What is the difference between subletting and having a lodger?
When subletting, you move out and rent out the entire apartment. With a lodger, you continue to live there and rent out a room. Lodgers usually do not require the landlord's approval.
