Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Visby

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Free Guide to Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer


Founded in 1992
2 people in their team
English
Advokathuset Öster i Visby AB is a law firm based in Visby, Gotland, centrally located in the eastern part of the city. The firm has historically focused on insolvency and bankruptcy matters but today concentrates its practice on economic family law, disputes, real estate, and criminal defense. It...
AS SEEN ON

1. About Landlord & Tenant Law in Visby, Sweden

Visby sits on Gotland and follows Swedish national law for landlord and tenant relationships. The core rules come from Hyreslagen, which is part of Jordabalken, the Swedish Civil Code. This means most rights and duties of landlords and tenants are the same across Sweden, including Visby and Gotland.

Key protections cover tenancy agreements, rent, maintenance, deposits, and termination. A tenancy dispute can be heard by Hyresnämnden or the courts, depending on the case. This guide provides a practical overview for residents of Visby seeking basic information and potential legal help.

Note: This is a general guide and does not substitute for individual legal advice. For a specific dispute or contract, consult a qualified attorney or legal counsel with experience in Swedish tenancy law.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

In Visby and Gotland, tenancy matters can become complex quickly. A lawyer can help you interpret a lease agreement and navigate disputes efficiently.

  • Disputes over security deposits after moving out of a Visby rental. A lawyer can assess deductions for damages, proper timelines for return, and proper demand notices under Hyreslagen.
  • Unlawful rent increases or unclear rent calculations for a Gotland apartment. An attorney can review the rent assessment and advise on legal limits and appeal paths with Hyresnämnden.
  • Termination notices from a landlord that seem excessive or improperly documented. A lawyer can verify notice periods, justification, and whether the tenant can contest the termination.
  • Maintenance and habitability issues not resolved by the landlord. A legal professional can help you demand timely repairs and determine when a withholding of rent or repair order is appropriate under the law.
  • Eviction procedures initiated by a landlord on Gotland. An attorney can evaluate the grounds for eviction, represent you in Hyresnämnden or court, and seek relief or remediation as needed.
  • Drafting, negotiating, or reviewing a tenancy agreement to confirm that terms align with Hyreslagen and local practices. This reduces future disputes and clarifies responsibilities for both sides.

Engaging a lawyer early can save time and money by preventing escalation and ensuring proper procedure. In Visby, local counsel with Gotland experience can provide tailored advice on landlord-tenant interactions specific to island markets and housing stock.

3. Local Laws Overview

This section highlights two to three specific laws or regulations that govern landlord and tenant relationships relevant to Visby residents. Where applicable, it notes effective dates or recent changes.

Jordabalken 12 kap - Hyreslagen (Rent Law)

The Hyreslagen sits inside Jordabalken and governs residential tenancies, including rent, deposits, repairs, and termination. It applies uniformly across Sweden, including Visby on Gotland. For precise provisions on termination notice, landlord obligations, and tenant protections, refer to official national sources and applicable case law in Hyresnämnden decisions.

Plan- och bygglagen (PBL) and Building Regulations

PBL governs planning, construction, and safety standards for housing. It influences landlord obligations around habitability, essential repairs, and building compliance for rental properties on Gotland. Landlords must ensure that buildings meet minimum safety and energy performance standards under applicable regulations.

BBR - Byggregler and Related Building Standards

BBR and related building standards set technical requirements for housing conditions, including ventilation, insulation, and safety features. While not a tenancy agreement term alone, these regulations affect what landlords must maintain and what tenants can rightfully expect from a rental unit on Visby.

Source: Boverket - official guidance on tenancy rights, repairs, and housing standards on Sweden's housing stock. https://www.boverket.se
Source: Kammarkollegiet - guidance for tenants and landlords on rental disputes and legal processes. https://www.kammarkollegiet.se
Source: Domstolsverket and Domstol.se - information about the Swedish courts and Hyresnämnden decisions in tenancy matters. https://www.domstol.se

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hyreslagen and how does it affect my Visby tenancy?

Hyreslagen is part of Jordabalken and governs residential tenancies. It sets rules for rent, deposits, repairs, and termination. For Visby residents, the same rules apply as elsewhere in Sweden, but local practices may influence how disputes are handled.

How do I start a tenancy dispute process on Gotland?

Begin by collecting all lease documents and correspondence with your landlord. Contact the Hyresnämnden or your local municipal advice service for guidance on filing a complaint and the steps to take.

How much can a landlord legally increase rent in Visby?

Rent increases must follow Hyreslagen and any rent control or market norms applicable to the property. A lawyer can help you evaluate whether an increase is justified and how to challenge it if warranted.

When is a security deposit legally refunded to a tenant in Gotland?

The deposit should be returned promptly after move-out, minus any legitimate deductions for damages or unpaid rent. A written itemized list is typical, and the landlord must provide it with the refund.

Where can I lodge a complaint about a landlord’s maintenance in Visby?

You can lodge complaints with the Hyresnämnden or the local building authority if maintenance issues affect safety or habitability. Document all requests and responses for reference.

Why might a tenancy agreement be deemed invalid under Swedish law on Gotland?

A tenancy agreement can be challenged if it violates Hyreslagen, misrepresents terms, or is signed under duress or misrepresentation. Legal review can confirm enforceability and rights.

Can I withhold rent for necessary repairs in Visby without risking eviction?

Withholding rent is a legal risk and should be done only after proper legal guidance. In many cases, tenants must follow the formal repair demand process and seek remedies through Hyresnämnden.

Do I need a lawyer to handle eviction notices in Gotland rental cases?

Having a lawyer is strongly advisable for eviction matters. An attorney can evaluate grounds for eviction, represent you in proceedings, and help mitigate costs or wrongful actions.

Should I sign a tenancy agreement in Visby without a lawyer?

Reviewing a tenancy agreement with a lawyer is prudent, especially for long-term leases or unusual terms. A lawyer can flag clauses that deviate from Hyreslagen or local norms.

How long does a typical tenancy dispute take in Gotland courts?

Resolution times vary with case complexity and court scheduling. Hyresnämnden decisions typically occur faster than full court proceedings, but timelines can range several weeks to months.

What is the role of Hyresnämnden in Visby tenant disputes?

Hyresnämnden acts as a specialized body to resolve tenancy disputes between landlords and tenants. It can issue rulings on deposits, repairs, evictions, and rent disputes without full court proceedings.

Is it possible to recover legal costs in a Gotland tenancy dispute?

Depending on the outcome and local practices, some or all legal costs may be recoverable through the court or as part of a decision. A lawyer can advise on cost recovery possibilities.

5. Additional Resources

  • Kammarkollegiet - Official advice and guidance on tenancy disputes, consumer protections, and legal aid options in Sweden. https://www.kammarkollegiet.se
  • Boverket - Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning; provides guidance on housing standards, repairs, and tenant rights. https://www.boverket.se
  • Domstolsverket / Domstol.se - The Swedish courts authority; information about Hyresnämnden, court procedures, and landlord-tenant cases. https://www.domstol.se

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your goal and collect all tenancy documents, notices, and correspondence related to the Visby rental.
  2. Ask for a qualified landlord-tenant attorney with Gotland experience and schedule an initial consultation.
  3. Share your documents and clearly outline the dispute or contract issue you face, including deadlines and desired outcomes.
  4. Ask for a written fee agreement, expected timeline, and potential alternatives such as mediation through Hyresnämnden.
  5. Receive a proposal, compare it with at least one alternative law firm, and assess experience with Visby or Gotland tenancy matters.
  6. Sign a retainer with the chosen attorney and establish a communication plan for updates and next steps.
  7. Prepare for the next phase, whether negotiation, mediation, or representation in Hyresnämnden or court, using organized evidence and a clear timeline.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Visby through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Landlord & Tenant, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Visby, Sweden — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.