When can a housing association not refuse subletting?
By Olof Kernell • November 26, 2025
Subletting a condominium can be a practical solution, for example when working in another city or trying out living with a partner. It is important to understand under which circumstances a housing association is allowed to refuse a subletting request.
In this article, we explain the legal grounds for refusal, common reasons associations say no, how the association’s bylaws affect your rights, and what rights you have as an owner. We also cover how to appeal a decision, which reasons are considered valid for subletting, and the association’s obligation to justify its decision and respond within a reasonable timeframe.
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“A clear and well-motivated application increases your chances of receiving approval for subletting.”
“A clear and well-motivated application increases your chances of receiving approval for subletting.”
Legal grounds for refusal
A housing association may refuse a subletting request only if there are justified reasons. According to the Condominium Act, the owner must have a valid reason for subletting, and the association must not have a justified reason to deny consent.
Justified reasons for refusal may include situations where the proposed tenant has previously been evicted due to disturbances, or if the association’s bylaws impose specific requirements, such as age limits in senior housing.
Common reasons for denied applications
Associations often deny subletting applications for several reasons, but they must always provide objective and lawful grounds. Common reasons include:
- A high number of existing sublets, which may affect community structure or property management.
- Insufficient reasons for subletting, for example if the owner cannot show valid grounds such as work or studies in another city.
- Lack of information about the proposed tenant or concerns regarding their suitability.
- Restrictions stated in the association’s bylaws, such as age requirements in senior housing.
Rights of condominium owners when subletting is denied
If the association denies your request, you have the right to have the decision reviewed by the Rent Tribunal. The tribunal may grant permission to sublet if you have valid reasons and the association lacks justified grounds for refusal.
Valid reasons include work or studies in another city, trying to live together with a partner or difficulty selling the apartment. It is important to apply to the tribunal within a reasonable time after receiving the association’s decision.
How to appeal the association’s decision
If your request is denied, you may submit a written application to the Rent Tribunal. In your application, explain your reasons for subletting and include supporting documents, such as proof of employment in another city or confirmation of studies.
The tribunal will assess both your reasons and the association’s justification for refusal. If your reasons are considered sufficient and the association lacks valid grounds to deny the request, the tribunal can grant you permission to sublet.
Timeframes for the association’s decision
When you submit a subletting request, it is important to know how long the association may take to respond. As a general rule, the board must handle the application promptly and provide a decision within a reasonable period, typically within one to two months.
If the association delays its decision for an unreasonably long time, this may be interpreted as approval. It is therefore recommended to submit your application well in advance of the planned sublet and follow up if you do not receive a response within the expected timeframe.
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