Yes, you can add an extra tenant to the contract, but only if the landlord approves it. A written addendum to your original rental agreement is required.
The basic rule in Chapter 12, Section 1 of the Land Code (jordabalken) is that a tenant may not transfer or share the right of use with another person without the landlord's consent. This also applies to taking in an extra person in the flat. The landlord therefore has a legal right to refuse.
When is a new contract needed?
If you want to move in a partner, a friend, or a relative who will stay for a longer period, a verbal agreement is not sufficient. You and the landlord must draw up a written addendum to the rental agreement. This addendum should clearly state:
- Which person is being added.
- From which date the person becomes a co-tenant.
- Whether the new person becomes jointly liable for the entire rent.
- Any new terms that apply.
Such an addendum protects you as the original tenant. Without it, the landlord could claim that you have illegally sublet part of the flat.
Difference between a co-tenant and subletting
It is important to distinguish between taking in a co-tenant and subletting part of the flat.
- Co-tenant: A person who lives in the flat together with you. You share the space and often the rent. The landlord must approve this.
- Subletting: You rent out part of the flat (e.g., a room) to someone who pays rent directly to you, but who does not live with you in the same way. This is a more formal transfer and requires a separate contract and often the landlord's approval.
For more details on the difference, see our guide: Lodger vs. Tenant: What is the difference and what are your rights?
The landlord can refuse – but not arbitrarily
A landlord cannot refuse you to take in an extra tenant without reason. The refusal must be objective and justified. Common valid reasons include:
- The flat is already too small for another person.
- The new person has a history that poses a risk of disturbance or damage.
- The landlord has reasonable grounds to suspect that it is actually an illegal subletting.
If you believe the refusal is unfounded, you can appeal the decision to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden). Each case is assessed individually there. Read more about your rights in the process: The Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden): how it works and your rights as a tenant
Step by step: How to add a tenant
- Contact the landlord: Inform them of your wish and state who you want to add.
- Prepare information: Have details about the new person ready (name, personal identity number, possibly references).
- Negotiate: Discuss terms, especially who is responsible for the rent.
- Write an addendum: Draw up a written addendum to the rental agreement that both parties sign.
- File it: Keep a copy of the signed addendum.
Rights and obligations of the co-tenant
When a person becomes a co-tenant through an addendum to the rental agreement, a legal relationship is established. The new person has an obligation to follow the rental rules and is, if agreed, jointly liable for the entire rent. This means the landlord can demand the full rent amount from either you or your co-tenant in case of late payment. According to Chapter 12, Section 4 of the Land Code (jordabalken), the co-tenant is bound by the same provisions as you as the main tenant. It is therefore crucial that the written addendum clearly states the division of responsibility. Without such an agreement, you risk bearing the full responsibility alone towards the landlord. A co-tenant also has the right to stay in and use the flat in accordance with the agreement. If the co-tenant disturbs the order, the landlord can demand that you as the main tenant take action.
The landlord's responsibilities and obligations
The landlord has an obligation to treat your application to add a tenant in an objective and reasonable manner. According to practice from the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden), the refusal must be justified and not discriminatory. The landlord cannot refer to general preferences but must have concrete reasons, such as the flat becoming too cramped according to municipal regulations on living space. The landlord also has an obligation to process your request promptly. Delays can in some cases lead to you being able to apply for a co-tenant to be approved through the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden). Once an addendum has been approved and signed, the landlord is bound by these new terms. The landlord cannot unilaterally change these terms without your consent. It is therefore important that you keep all documents and correspondence. In future disputes, these documents can serve as evidence.
Frequently asked questions
Can the landlord raise the rent if I take in an extra person?
It depends on what is stated in your original rental agreement. Some agreements contain clauses that the rent can be adjusted in case of changed use or number of tenants. If no such agreement exists, the landlord cannot unilaterally raise the rent just because you take in another person. Any rent increase must then be negotiated and stipulated in the written addendum.
What happens if I take in someone without the landlord's approval?
It can lead to serious consequences. The landlord can sue you for breach of contract and, in the worst case, order an eviction. This applies especially if it is assessed as an illegal subletting. See our guide on eviction for more information: Eviction due to criminal activity: a complete guide to new legal requirements
Is the extra tenant jointly liable for the entire rent?
This must be clearly stated in the written addendum. If it is not specified, only you as the original tenant are responsible towards the landlord. It is therefore important to clarify this in the contract.
Do the same rules apply if I live in a tenant-owned flat (bostadsrätt)?
No, the rules are different. In a tenant-owned flat (bostadsrätt), the tenant-owned flat association's (bostadsrättsförening) statutes and board govern. You often need to report a new move-in to the board and may need their approval. Read more about specific rules for tenant-owned flats: Subletting of a tenant-owned flat (bostadsrätt): new rules 2026
Summary
Adding an extra tenant to the contract is possible, but requires the landlord's approval and a written addendum. This ensures your rights and protects you from future disputes. Always communicate openly with the landlord and ensure all agreements are documented.
The above text is general information and does not constitute legal advice.
