# Tenant Rights During Rental Property Renovations *3 juli 2026* > Wondering about tenant rights during rental property renovations? Read our guide to understand your rights and obligations. ## Introduction Renovating a rental property can be a necessity for both landlords and tenants, but it often raises questions about tenant rights during renovations. Whether it's a minor refresh or a major overhaul, understanding the applicable rules is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive guide to tenant rights during rental property renovations, covering notice periods, compensation, and temporary relocation. ## Landlord's Obligations and Tenant's Rights A landlord has the right to renovate their property, but this must not be done in a way that unreasonably disturbs the tenant. The law requires landlords to provide tenants with timely notice before renovation work begins. The notice period varies depending on the scope of the renovation. ### Notice and Information For less extensive renovations, such as updating surfaces or minor repairs, a notice period of a few weeks may suffice. For more significant work, like pipe replacements or major structural changes, a longer notice period, often several months, is required. Tenants have the right to receive clear information about what the renovation entails, its expected duration, and any disruptions that may occur. ### Right to Compensation If the renovation causes significant inconvenience to the tenant, such as severe noise, dust, or limited access to the dwelling, the tenant may be entitled to compensation. This can take the form of a rent reduction for the period the inconvenience lasts. In cases of particularly severe disturbances, or if the tenant is forced to relocate temporarily, the right to compensation for moving costs and increased living expenses may apply. ## Tenant's Responsibilities During Renovation While the focus is on tenant rights during renovations, tenants also have certain responsibilities. This means showing reasonable consideration for the renovation work and the tradespeople carrying it out. ### Access to the Dwelling Tenants must grant the landlord and their representatives access to the dwelling to carry out necessary renovation work. This applies even if the tenant is not personally present, provided the landlord has given proper notice and the work is performed during reasonable hours. ### Protection of Property It is the tenant's responsibility to protect their own belongings from damage that may occur during the renovation. This may involve moving furniture and valuables away from the work area or covering them up. ## Temporary Evacuation and Housing In some cases, the renovation may be so extensive that it is impossible for the tenant to remain in the dwelling. This can occur during pipe replacements, major facade renovations, or if parts of the dwelling become unusable. ### Right to Alternative Housing If the tenant is forced to move out temporarily due to the renovation, the landlord generally has an obligation to arrange and cover the costs of suitable temporary housing. Tenants have the right to refuse an offered accommodation if it is not reasonable, but will then have to bear any additional costs themselves. It is important to agree on the terms of the temporary accommodation with the landlord before moving. ### Rent Reduction During Evacuation During the period the tenant is forced to live elsewhere due to the renovation, the rent should normally be reduced or waived entirely, depending on the extent to which the dwelling could not be used. This is an important aspect of tenant rights during renovations. ## Disputes and Advice If disagreements arise between the landlord and tenant regarding the renovation, assistance is available. The Tenants' Association (Hyresgästföreningen) is a valuable resource for tenants and can offer advice and support in disputes. Municipal consumer advisors can also provide information. ### What to do in case of disagreement? The first step is always to try to resolve the dispute through dialogue with the landlord. If this does not lead to a resolution, you can turn to the Tenants' Association for mediation or further action. In the last resort, a dispute may need to be heard by the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden). ### FAQ - Common Questions About Tenant Rights During Renovations ### ### Can my landlord renovate without my consent? Yes, landlords have the right to carry out necessary renovations and maintenance work on the property, even without the tenant's specific consent, provided proper notice has been given and the work does not cause unreasonable disturbances. ### ### How much notice must I receive for renovations? The notice period varies depending on the scope of the renovation. For minor work, a few weeks may be sufficient, while larger projects like pipe replacements require several months' notice. Always check the specific requirements for your situation. ### ### Can I get a rent reduction if the renovation disturbs me? Yes, if the renovation causes significant inconvenience, such as severe noise or dust, you may be entitled to a rent reduction. For more extensive disturbances, or if you are forced to move out, you may also be entitled to compensation for moving costs and increased living expenses. ### ### What happens if I cannot stay in my home during the renovation? If the renovation makes your dwelling uninhabitable, the landlord usually has an obligation to provide and pay for suitable temporary housing. Rent should normally be reduced or waived during the time you are living elsewhere. ### ### Who should I contact if I have problems with the renovation? Start by talking to your landlord. If you cannot reach an agreement, contact the Tenants' Association for advice and support.