# Common Questions About Renting Second Hand in Malmö

*27 maj 2026*

> Wondering about renting second hand in Malmö? We answer the most common questions about second-hand rentals, regulations, and your rights.

Renting second hand in Malmö can be a smart way to find accommodation, but there are several important factors to consider. This guide answers the most common questions about renting out or renting a second-hand apartment in Malmö, aiming to make the process as smooth and secure as possible.

## Basics of Second-Hand Rentals in Malmö

### What does it mean to rent second hand?
Renting second hand means you are leasing a property from someone who is themselves renting it from a landlord or owns it. The original tenant or owner acts as your intermediary and landlord.

### Is it legal to rent out second hand in Malmö?
Yes, it is legal to rent out one's property second hand, but it usually requires permission from the main landlord or the housing cooperative. Without permission, the rental might be considered invalid and lead to problems for both the renter and the tenant.

### What permits are required for second-hand rentals?
For rental apartments (hyresrätter), permission from the landlord is needed. For apartments owned by a housing cooperative (bostadsrätter), permission from the cooperative's board is required. Renting out without proper consent can result in the loss of your own right to occupy the property.

### What is the difference between first-hand and second-hand renting?
In first-hand rentals, you lease directly from the main landlord. In second-hand rentals, you lease from someone who holds a first-hand contract or owns the property, meaning you have an 'indirect' housing relationship with the original landlord.

## Contracts and Regulations for Second-Hand Rentals

### What should a second-hand contract look like?
A second-hand contract should include the same basic information as a first-hand contract: names of parties, address, rental period, rent amount, and any specific conditions. It's crucial that both parties sign, and that it clearly states it's a second-hand rental.

### What needs to be included in a second-hand apartment contract?
Besides basic details, the contract should specify who is responsible for repairs, who pays for electricity and internet, and the notice period for termination. It's also advisable to include a copy of the original contract or proof of the owner's right to sublet.

### What is a reasonable rent for a second-hand rental?
The rent cannot exceed what the first-hand tenant or owner pays, plus any costs for utilities and furnishings. Charging an unreasonably high rent can lead to the agreement being invalidated or the tenant being entitled to a refund.

### Can I, as a tenant, terminate the contract early?
Yes, as a tenant, you generally have the right to terminate the contract early according to the rules for first-hand contracts, usually with a three-month notice period. However, always check your specific second-hand agreement.

### What happens if the landlord does not have permission?
If the landlord is renting out without the necessary permission, the agreement may be invalid. You, as the tenant, might have to move out on short notice, and the landlord could face sanctions from their landlord or cooperative. This is one of the significant risks of renting second hand.

## Rights and Obligations

### What rights do I have as a second-hand tenant?
You largely have the same rights as a first-hand tenant regarding security of tenure and the right to a habitable dwelling. You have the right to stay even if the first-hand contract is terminated, provided the second-hand rental was approved.

### What obligations do I have as a second-hand tenant?
As a tenant, you are obligated to pay rent on time, take good care of the apartment, and follow the applicable rules. You must also respect the landlord's property if the apartment is furnished.

### What is security of tenure in second-hand rentals?
Security of tenure means that you, as a tenant, have the right to remain in the apartment even after the rental period has expired, under certain conditions. However, this protection is weaker in second-hand rentals compared to first-hand rentals and can be limited by agreement.

### What are the risks of renting second hand?
The main risks include the landlord lacking permission, the rent being unreasonably high, or the apartment not meeting basic living standards. There's also a risk of eviction if the first-hand tenant is evicted or breaches their own contract. Carefully reviewing the contract and ensuring the rental is approved is crucial to minimize these risks when you rent second hand in Malmö.

### How can I, as a landlord, protect myself in a second-hand rental?
Ensure you have the correct permission from your landlord or housing cooperative. Use a clear and legally sound contract, and conduct a thorough credit check on the prospective tenant. Also, make sure to inform yourself about the rules regarding second-hand rentals in Malmö to avoid problems.

## Practical Tips for Second-Hand Rentals

### How do I find second-hand apartments to rent in Malmö?
Utilize established housing portals, local Facebook groups, and your network. However, be wary of scams and always double-check the landlord's identity and the legitimacy of the rental. Finding a studio apartment in Malmö quickly might be easier through these channels, but requires extra caution.

### What should I check before signing a contract?
Verify the landlord's identity, review the original contract to confirm their right to sublet, and inspect the apartment thoroughly. Ensure all agreements are documented in the contract. If anything is unclear, seek advice.

### What should I do if I have problems with my second-hand rental?
First, contact your landlord or housing cooperative if the issue concerns the rental itself. For disputes regarding the contract or rent, you can turn to the Tenants' Association (Hyresgästföreningen) or a lawyer specializing in rental law. Understanding your rights is important for any apartment rental contract in Malmö.