The short answer
Before paying for Swedish housing, verify the landlord’s identity, right to let, the address and the contract terms. Visit the property yourself or through someone you trust, resist pressure and use a traceable payment to the contracting party. A photographed ID, PDF contract or keys shown on video does not by itself prove that the advertiser can legally rent you the home.
Four checks before any transfer
Compare the landlord’s name with information from the property owner or bostadsrättsförening.
For an andrahand let, request the required written permission and check its dates.
Visit the address and read the subletting rules.
| In Swedish | What it means | When you use it |
|---|---|---|
| Har du tillstånd att hyra ut bostaden? | Do you have permission to let the home? | |
| Jag betalar efter att avtalet är kontrollerat. | I will pay after the contract has been checked. |
Warning signs
A price far below the market, a landlord who is always abroad or manufactured urgency should slow you down.
Be wary of payment to a third party, cryptocurrency, gift cards or a service that hides the recipient.
Refusal of a viewing or independent verification is reason enough to walk away.
Contract, deposit and inventory
The contract should identify the parties, home, period, rent, included costs and termination terms.
Record the deposit, permitted deductions and return date in writing.
Photograph the condition at move-in and have existing defects acknowledged.
If you have already paid
Contact the bank or payment service immediately to try to stop or trace the transaction.
Preserve the listing, messages, contract, contact details and payment evidence, then report the matter to the police.
To test whether an offer is realistic, use the cost-of-living guide and settling path.
Sources
- Swedish Police: housing fraud2026-09-20
Rules and processing times change. Check the official page for your own case before acting on anything here.
Questions people ask
- Is a signed contract enough?
- No. Also verify identity, the property and the legal right to let it.
- Should I pay before viewing?
- Avoid paying before independent verification and a real viewing of the home.
- What should I do after a suspicious payment?
- Contact the payment provider immediately, preserve all evidence and report it to the police.
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