Housing
Noise and neighbours
Swedish buildings value quiet, especially at night. A little consideration goes a long way — and serious, repeated disturbance can cost you the flat.
What is expected
- Keep it quiet in the evenings and at night. Many buildings set quiet hours in their house rules. House rules differ between landlords and housing associations — your contract and the building’s ordningsregler decide the details.
- Tell neighbours before a party or a family gathering, and keep it reasonable.
- Avoid drilling, vacuuming and loud music late at night.
- Smoking on balconies or in stairwells may be banned in your building.
- Keep stairwells free from shoes, prams and bags — they are fire escape routes.
- Air your home and use the extractor fan when cooking to avoid moisture and smells.
If you are disturbed
Talk politely first
Often the neighbour does not know they are heard.
Contact the landlord
The landlord must make sure noise levels are acceptable. Keep a log of dates and times.
Call 112 if someone is in danger
Shouting, fighting or screams that suggest violence are a matter for the police.
Official sources
Rules and fees change. Always confirm on the official page before you apply or pay. Last checked 14 Oct 2026.