---
title: "How long does a landlord have to repay a deposit?"
author: "Philip Rönnmark"
authorUrl: "https://bofrid.com/en/articles/authors/philip-ronnmark"
datePublished: "2026-11-04T07:15:03.588Z"
dateModified: "2026-11-04T07:15:03.650Z"
description: "A landlord must repay a deposit within a reasonable time, usually 2–3 weeks. Late repayment incurs default interest under the Land Code."
keywords: ["landlord repay deposit how long", "deposit repayment timeframe", "reasonable time deposit rental flat", "default interest deposit 2026", "when do I get my deposit back"]
categories: ["Guides", "Landlord"]
canonical: "https://bofrid.com/en/articles/how-long-does-a-landlord-have-to-repay-a-deposit"
language: "en"
image: "https://bofrid.media/cms/06dad2cbf4607e590cefc59de1a36d021ecdc84e.webp"
---

# How long does a landlord have to repay a deposit?

A landlord must repay a deposit within a reasonable time after the tenant has left the flat. For rental flats (hyresrätt), Chapter 12, Section 27 of the Land Code (jordabalken) requires the landlord to repay the deposit without unnecessary delay. For private lettings under the Private Lettings Act (Privatuthyrningslagen) (2026:772), no explicit deadline is set in law, but the principle of reasonable time applies here too.

## Landlord repay deposit — the timeframe

The exact repayment period is not defined as a specific number of days in legislation. Instead, courts and the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) apply the concept of "reasonable time". In practice, this means the landlord should repay the deposit as soon as the final inspection is complete and any deductions for damage or unpaid rent have been calculated.

The Rent Tribunal has in several cases found that two to three weeks after inspection is a reasonable period. If the landlord delays longer without good reason, the tenant can claim default interest on the amount.

## Interest on late repayment

If the landlord does not repay the deposit within a reasonable time, the tenant can claim default interest under Chapter 6, Section 1 of the Land Code (jordabalken). The default interest rate for 2026 is 8 per cent per year, which equals approximately 0.67 per cent per month. Interest runs from the day the deposit should have been repaid.

The tenant does not need to make a separate demand to be entitled to interest — it accrues automatically on late repayment.

## Landlord repay deposit — practical steps

Here is a concrete action plan for both landlord and tenant:

**For the landlord:**

1. Conduct a final inspection together with the tenant or document the flat's condition in another way
2. Calculate any deductions for damage, unpaid rent or cleaning
3. Send a written notice to the tenant with a breakdown of any deductions
4. Repay the amount within two to three weeks of the inspection
5. Use the same payment method as the deposit was received

**For the tenant:**

1. Document the flat's condition at move-in and move-out with photographs
2. Request a written breakdown of any deductions from the landlord
3. Check that the amount matches the contract
4. If repayment is delayed beyond three weeks without explanation, send a reminder
5. Keep all receipts and correspondence

## Comparison: rental flat versus private letting

| Scenario | Timeframe | Legal basis | Interest on late repayment |
|----------|-----------|---|---|
| Rental flat (hyresrätt) | Reasonable time (2–3 weeks) | Chapter 12, Section 27 of the Land Code (jordabalken) | Chapter 6, Section 1 of the Land Code (8 % annual) |
| Private letting | Reasonable time (2–3 weeks) | Private Lettings Act (Privatuthyrningslagen) (2026:772) + general contract law | Chapter 6, Section 1 of the Land Code (8 % annual) |
| Subletting (andrahandsuthyrning) | Reasonable time (2–3 weeks) | Contract + Land Code | Chapter 6, Section 1 of the Land Code (8 % annual) |

## What can extend the process?

In some cases, repayment may take longer than two to three weeks:

- **Disputes over deductions**: If the tenant disagrees with the landlord about which damage should be deducted from the deposit, the process can be prolonged. In such cases, the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) can be asked to resolve the dispute.
- **Bank processing time**: The actual transfer of funds can take several working days depending on the bank.
- **Missing information**: If the landlord lacks the tenant's account number or address, this can cause delays.
- **Complex damage**: If it is unclear how much damage costs, the landlord may need to obtain quotes from tradespeople before the deduction can be calculated.

## What can extend the process?

In some cases, repayment may take longer than two to three weeks. **Disputes over deductions** are a common reason — if the tenant disagrees with the landlord about which damage should be deducted from the deposit, the process can be prolonged. In such cases, the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) can be asked to resolve the dispute. **Bank processing time** also plays a role, as the actual transfer of funds can take several working days depending on the bank and payment method.

**Missing information** from the tenant, such as account number or address, can cause delays. The landlord cannot complete the transfer without this information. **Complex damage** is another factor — if it is unclear how much damage costs, the landlord may need to obtain quotes from tradespeople before the deduction can be calculated correctly.

In some cases, **repairs or cleaning** that the landlord carries out after the tenant moves in may require time for invoicing and calculation. If the landlord is careful and wants to avoid disputes, thorough documentation of the flat's condition can also take time, but this is an investment that often saves time later.

## Frequently asked questions

**Can a landlord keep the deposit if the tenant does not pay the final bill?**

Yes, the landlord may deduct unpaid rent from the deposit. The amount must, however, be documented and reasonable. If the deduction is larger than the deposit, the landlord can claim the remaining amount from the tenant separately.

**What do I do if the landlord does not repay the deposit after two months?**

Send a written reminder to the landlord with a reasonable deadline (for example, two weeks). If the landlord still does not pay, you can report the matter to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden), which can force the landlord to repay the amount plus interest and any compensation for your costs.

**Must the landlord pay interest if the deposit is delayed due to a bank error?**

If the delay is due to the landlord's negligence (for example, forgetting to make the transfer), the landlord is liable to pay interest. If it is the bank's fault, the situation is more complex and may require legal assessment.

**Can a landlord require me to pay for the inspection before the deposit is repaid?**

No, the inspection is the landlord's responsibility and cost. The landlord may not deduct inspection costs from the deposit without a specific agreement to do so. See more at [what does it cost to get your deposit back](https://bofrid.com/en/articles/what-does-it-cost-to-get-your-deposit-back).

## Related articles

Read more about deposits and repayment:

- [Can you get your deposit back without the landlord inspecting?](https://bofrid.com/en/articles/can-you-get-your-deposit-back-without-a-landlord-inspection)
- [What can a landlord deduct from the deposit?](https://bofrid.com/en/articles/rental-deposit-sweden-rules-amount-2026)
- [How much can a landlord take as a deposit on a rental flat?](https://bofrid.com/en/articles/how-much-deposit-can-you-take-on-a-rental-flat)
- Can a landlord require a deposit in cash?

*This text is general information about rental flats and private lettings and does not constitute legal advice. In case of disputes, it is recommended to contact the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) or a lawyer.*