# How Does Subletting a Housing Cooperative Apartment Work? *13 juli 2026* > Subletting your housing cooperative apartment can be a great solution, but there are rules to follow. Read our guide on subletting a housing cooperative to avoid pitfalls. Owning a housing cooperative apartment grants you the freedom to live and settle, but sometimes situations arise where you need to leave your home for a period. Perhaps a job in another city, a long trip abroad, or a temporary family situation calls you away. In these scenarios, subletting your housing cooperative apartment can be an excellent solution to both keep your home and generate income. But what does it really mean to sublet a housing cooperative apartment, and what steps do you need to take? This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of how subletting a housing cooperative apartment works, from applying for permission to drafting a contract and what to consider to make the process as smooth as possible. ## Step-by-Step Guide to Subletting a Housing Cooperative Apartment Subletting your housing cooperative apartment requires careful planning and adherence to the housing cooperative's (BRF) rules and legislation. Here are the key steps: ### Step 1: Review the Cooperative's Statutes and Rules The very first thing you should do is carefully read your housing cooperative's statutes. Many cooperatives have specific rules regarding subletting. Some may have restrictions on how long you can sublet, to whom you can sublet, or if it's permitted at all. ### Step 2: Apply for Permission from the Board To sublet your housing cooperative apartment, you must, according to the Housing Cooperative Act, have the board's approval. This applies whether you are subletting the entire apartment or just a room. The application should be in writing, stating the reasons for the subletting and who you plan to sublet to. Common reasons that are usually accepted include studies, work in another location, military service, illness, or trial cohabitation with a partner. ### Step 3: Specific Reasons for Subletting The Housing Cooperative Act requires you to have "compelling reasons" to sublet. This means that simply wanting to earn extra money by renting out your apartment while you live there yourself is generally not a valid reason. The board will assess whether your stated reason is legitimate and warrants granting permission for the sublet. If you are unsure about whether your reason is sufficient, it's best to discuss it with the cooperative's board beforehand. ### Step 4: Formalize the Subletting Agreement Once you have received permission from the board, you need to formalize the subletting. This is done by creating a subletting contract (hyresavtal för andrahand) between you (as the landlord) and the subtenant. This contract is crucial for defining the terms of the rental and protecting both parties. It should include: * Names and contact information for both parties. * The address of the apartment and details about the specific unit being sublet. * The rental period (start and end dates). * The rental amount (hyra). Ensure this is reasonable and doesn't exceed what you pay your cooperative, plus a reasonable amount for utilities and wear and tear. Excessive rent can be grounds for the board to deny permission or revoke it later. * Deposit details (if any). * Rules regarding the use of the apartment, including any restrictions on pets, smoking, or noise. * Information about utilities and who is responsible for paying them. * Termination clauses. It's highly recommended to use a standard subletting contract template, which can often be found online or provided by tenant organizations. Ensure the contract complies with Swedish rental laws. ### Step 5: Subletting Your Housing Cooperative Apartment - What to Consider Beyond the formal steps, there are several practical aspects to consider when subletting your housing cooperative apartment: * **Insurance:** Your home insurance likely does not cover damage caused by a subtenant. You need to ensure you have adequate insurance that covers this possibility, or that the subtenant has their own renter's insurance. Inform your insurance company about the sublet. * **Utilities:** Clarify who is responsible for utilities like electricity, water, and internet. Usually, the subtenant pays these directly, but it must be clearly stated in the contract. * **Maintenance and Repairs:** Establish who is responsible for minor repairs and maintenance during the subletting period. Typically, the subtenant handles minor issues, while you remain responsible for major repairs and issues related to the building itself. * **Communication:** Maintain open communication with your subtenant. Be available to answer questions and address any issues that may arise promptly. * **The Cooperative's Rules:** Remind your subtenant of the cooperative's rules, such as noise regulations, waste disposal, and common area usage. They are expected to abide by these rules. ### Step 6: After the Subletting Period When the subletting period ends, ensure the subtenant vacates the apartment on the agreed-upon date. Conduct a thorough inspection of the apartment together to document its condition and handle the return of any deposit. It's also a good idea to formally confirm the end of the rental agreement in writing. ### FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Subletting Housing Cooperatives ### Q1: Can I sublet my housing cooperative apartment without permission? No, subletting a housing cooperative apartment without the board's explicit permission is a breach of contract and can lead to the termination of your right to the apartment. Always apply for and receive written permission before proceeding. ### Q2: How much rent can I charge when subletting my housing cooperative apartment? You are generally not allowed to charge more rent than you pay to your housing cooperative, plus a reasonable amount to cover utilities and wear and tear. Charging significantly more can be considered profiteering and may lead to issues with the board. ### Q3: What happens if my subtenant causes damage? As the primary owner and leaseholder, you are ultimately responsible for the apartment. If your subtenant causes damage, you will likely be liable to the housing cooperative and may need to claim costs from the subtenant based on your subletting contract and their potential renter's insurance.