# Tenant Rights to Maintenance: When Must the Landlord Repaint?

*19 juli 2026*

> Are you wondering about your rights regarding apartment maintenance? Here is a complete guide on the tenant right to maintenance and landlord obligations.

Understanding the tenant right to maintenance is essential for ensuring your apartment remains in good condition throughout your tenancy. Many tenants are unsure about their legal standing when it comes to requesting repainting or wallpapering. Under Swedish rental law, landlords have a duty to maintain the apartment to ensure it retains its rental value and meets standard living conditions. ## Navigating the tenant right to maintenance. To effectively manage your apartment maintenance, follow these steps. ### Step 1: Check your rental agreement. Many landlords operate under internal maintenance schedules or funds. ### Step 2: Document the wear and tear. Take clear photos of areas that have deteriorated. ### Step 3: Send a formal request. Put your request in writing to ensure you have a paper trail regarding your tenant right to maintenance. ### Step 4: Focus on the apartment's condition. Argue based on the objective state of the walls rather than personal preference. ### Step 5: Understand the rules for wallpapering. Landlords are generally not required to update decor just because the style is outdated. ### Step 6: Contact the Rent Tribunal if necessary. If the landlord refuses to address significant maintenance issues, you can seek legal mediation. ### Step 7: Negotiate. Sometimes, a compromise where the landlord provides the paint and you do the work is a viable solution. ### Step 8: Final inspection. Always verify that the work performed meets professional standards. ## Frequently Asked Questions. ### How often must a landlord repaint? While there is no strict law, 12-15 years is the industry standard for normal wear. ### What is the landlord's maintenance duty? It is the obligation to keep the apartment in a condition that is customary for the area. ### Can I demand repainting immediately? Only if the condition of the apartment falls below the standard expected for a rental property.