# Renting Out in the Third Hand: Rules and What You Need to Know

*Johan Källbjer*
*10 juni 2026*

> Renting out a property in the third hand can be an option when you need to leave your home for a period. Read our guide to understand the rules and what you need to know.

Renting out a property in the third hand means you are subletting a dwelling that you yourself are renting, to someone else. This can be an attractive option for both the person who needs to leave their home for a period and for someone seeking accommodation. However, there are strict rules and conditions that must be followed for it to be legal and to avoid problems. This guide provides a complete overview of what applies when you want to rent out in the third hand.

## What Does Renting Out in the Third Hand Entail?

When we talk about renting out in the third hand, we mean a situation where the original tenant (who has a first-hand lease) sublets the property to a second-hand tenant, who in turn sublets it to a third-hand tenant. In practice, it is often the original tenant who sublets to a second-hand tenant, and it is this situation that is commonly referred to when discussing "third-hand subletting." To rent out in the third hand, permission from the owner or manager of the property (the landlord) is usually required.

### Conditions for Renting Out in the Third Hand

The first and most crucial step is to obtain permission from your landlord. Without this permission, the sublease is invalid and can lead to eviction. The landlord may grant permission if:

*   **Reasonable Cause:** You, as the first-hand tenant, have a valid reason for not living in the property, such as studying in another city, working in another city, military service, or a longer stay abroad.
*   **Fixed Term:** The sublease is for a limited period.
*   **Quality:** The person who will rent the property meets the requirements for living there (although these requirements may be less strict than for first-hand leases).

It is important to remember that you, as the first-hand tenant, are always ultimately responsible for the property and for ensuring that the rent is paid, even if you are subletting in the second or third hand.

## Important Rules and Legal Aspects

Renting out in the third hand is primarily regulated by the Swedish Land Code (Jordabalken - JB). Here are some of the most important points to be aware of:

*   **Landlord's Permission:** As mentioned, this is crucial. The application should be made in writing and clearly describe who will be renting and for what period.
*   **Lease Agreement:** A written lease agreement between you (as the first-hand tenant) and your second-hand tenant is highly recommended. This agreement should include the rental period, rent amount, and other relevant terms. A template for a third-hand contract can be helpful.
*   **Rent Level:** You are not allowed to charge your second-hand tenant a higher rent than you yourself pay to your landlord, plus a reasonable surcharge for operating costs (e.g., electricity, water if not included). Charging excessive rent is illegal.
*   **Responsibility:** You, as the first-hand tenant, remain responsible for the apartment and for ensuring that the rent is paid to the landlord on time. You may be liable for any damages caused by your second-hand tenant.
*   **Subletting to Companies:** It is possible to rent out in the third hand to a company, but this usually requires specific permission from the landlord and may have special conditions.

### What Happens If I Sublet Without Permission?

If you sublet your property in the second or third hand without the landlord's permission, you are violating your own lease agreement. This can lead to the termination of your lease and you being forced to move out, and in the worst case, eviction. Your second-hand tenant may also be forced to move out.

## Practical Tips for Renting Out in the Third Hand

Once you have received permission and are proceeding with the sublease, there are a few practical things to consider:

*   **Choose the Right Tenant:** Check references and, if possible, credit reports. Ensure the person seems reliable.
*   **Write Clear Agreements:** Use a template for a third-hand contract that covers all important points. Be clear about rules regarding electricity, internet, waste disposal, etc.
*   **Inspection:** Conduct an inspection of the property with your tenant at the time of move-in and move-out to document the condition and any damages.
*   **Communication:** Maintain good communication with both your landlord and your tenant.

### Things to Consider as a Second-Hand Tenant

If you are renting a property in the second or third hand yourself, it is important to ensure that everything is done correctly:

*   **Verify Permission:** Ask to see proof that the first-hand tenant has received permission from the landlord to sublet.
*   **Sign an Agreement:** Ensure you receive a written lease agreement that clearly outlines your rights and obligations.
*   **Pay Rent:** Always pay the rent to the person you are renting from (your direct landlord) and make sure to get receipts.

## Frequently Asked Questions About Renting Out in the Third Hand

### ### Can I rent out in the third hand without the landlord's permission?

No, in most cases, written permission from your landlord is required to rent out in the third hand (which is usually a second-hand sublet from your first-hand lease). Without permission, the sublease is invalid and can lead to the termination of your own lease.

### ### How much rent can I charge when renting out in the third hand?

You are not allowed to charge your second-hand tenant a higher rent than you yourself pay to your landlord, plus a reasonable surcharge for any operating costs you cover (e.g., electricity, water, internet if not included in your own rent). Excessive rent is illegal.

### ### What is the difference between second-hand and third-hand rental?

When we talk about renting out in the "second hand," it means that the person with a first-hand lease is subletting their property. Renting out in the "third hand" is essentially a continuation of this, where a second-hand tenant (who might be subletting themselves) sublets to a third-hand tenant. In practice, however, it is usually the original first-hand tenant who is subletting, and that sublease is regulated by the rules for second-hand subletting. To rent out in the third hand (i.e., your second-hand tenant sublets), permission from you as the first-hand tenant and your landlord is also required.

### ### Can I rent out my property in the third hand to a company?

Yes, it is possible to rent out in the third hand to a company, but this always requires specific permission from your landlord. The landlord may have special conditions for this type of sublease, and it is important to have a clear contract that regulates the company's responsibilities.

### ### What is a third-hand contract?

A third-hand contract is a legally binding agreement drawn up between you as the first-hand tenant and your second-hand tenant. It regulates the terms of the sublease, including the rental period, rent amount, termination rules, and any other important points. Using a template for a third-hand contract can be a good starting point.