--- title: "Subletting: A Landlord's Guide for 2025" author: "Esther Asmundsson" authorUrl: "https://dev.bofrid.dev/en/articles/authors/EstherAsmundsson" datePublished: "2025-12-12T11:03:00.000Z" dateModified: "2026-01-10T09:50:18Z" description: "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 apart" categories: ["Hyresvärd"] canonical: "https://dev.bofrid.dev/en/articles/second-hand-renting-in-sweden" language: "en" image: "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lgx6wuf4/production/152a953c6a64b1e216cf5fe003369ac483890d94-1024x1024.png?rect=0,243,1024,538&w=1200&h=630&fit=crop" --- # Subletting: A Landlord's Guide for 2025 **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: - **Entire apartment:** You move out completely, and someone else lives in the apartment. - **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: - Temporary work or studies in another location - Trial period of living with a partner - Extended stay abroad - Caring for a relative - Military service **Reasons that are not approved:** - You want to make money on your apartment. - You have bought a home but want to keep the rental apartment "just in case." - 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: - **1–2 years** is usually approved for studies/work. - **Longer periods** require stronger justification. - **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: - **Parties' details:** Name, social security number, contact information. - **Apartment address:** Full address and apartment number. - **Rental period:** Start date, end date, notice period. - **Rental amount:** Monthly rent, what is included (electricity, internet, etc.). - **Deposit:** Usually 1–2 months' rent. - **Furniture and fixtures:** List with condition upon move-in. - **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. - **Responsible tenants:** BankID verification, credit report, criminal record, and income verification. - **Digital contracts:** Legally correct agreements with BankID signing. - **Housing merit system:** See the tenant's history and reliability. - **Completely free for landlords:** No fees or commission. - **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.