# Rental Agreement Without Time Limit: What Applies? *19 juni 2026* > A rental agreement without a time limit, also known as an indefinite agreement, offers security for both tenant and landlord. Learn about your rights and obligations. # Rental Agreement Without Time Limit: What Applies? Understanding the terms of your rental agreement is fundamental for a secure living situation. A **rental agreement without a time limit**, often called an indefinite agreement or a rolling agreement, is the most common type of rental contract in Sweden. This type of agreement runs indefinitely and provides strong security of tenure for the tenant. But what does it really mean to rent indefinitely, and what rules apply to both tenant and landlord? This article clarifies the concepts surrounding rental agreements without a time limit. ## What is a Rental Agreement Without Time Limit? A **rental agreement without a time limit** means that the agreement does not have a predetermined end date. It continues to be valid until it is terminated by one of the parties, or if there are specific grounds for termination. Unlike fixed-term agreements, which expire on a certain date if not terminated, an indefinite agreement offers greater security as there is no risk of having to move at the end of the contract term if you don't wish to. ### Security of Tenure One of the most important aspects of a rental agreement without a time limit is the enhanced security of tenure. This protection means that the tenant has the right to remain in the apartment even if the landlord terminates the agreement. The landlord must have valid reasons to terminate an indefinite agreement, and these reasons are regulated by Swedish law (Jordabalken). Common reasons may include: * **Rent arrears:** If the tenant does not pay rent on time, or is repeatedly late with payments. * **Unacceptable disturbance:** If the tenant causes disturbances in the living environment that are detrimental to the surroundings. * **Neglect of the apartment:** If the tenant mismanages or damages the property. * **Landlord's own need:** In some cases, the landlord may terminate the agreement if they or a close relative need the apartment, but this is often difficult to enforce. * **Demolition or major renovation:** If the property is to be demolished or undergo extensive renovation that makes the apartment uninhabitable. Even if the landlord has valid reasons, the termination must follow specific formal requirements and notice periods. If the tenant does not agree to the termination, the dispute can be reviewed by the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden). ## Termination of Rental Agreement Without Time Limit Although an indefinite agreement offers strong security of tenure, it can naturally be terminated. The rules for termination differ depending on who is terminating the agreement. ### Tenant's Termination As a tenant, you generally have a notice period of **three months**. The termination must be in writing if the landlord so requests, or if the tenant wishes the termination to be binding for the landlord. It is always best to send a written notice to have proof that you have terminated the agreement and from what date. ### Landlord's Termination For the landlord, the rules are more complex. A landlord cannot terminate a **rental agreement without a time limit** arbitrarily. For the termination to be valid, as mentioned above, a so-called "possession-breaking" reason is required. The notice period for the landlord is usually **three months**, but can be longer depending on how long the tenancy has lasted. A termination from the landlord must be in writing and clearly state the reasons for termination, as well as information about the tenant's right to object to the termination at the Rent Tribunal within a specified period (usually one month). ### What is a Rolling Agreement? The term "rolling agreement" is often used synonymously with an indefinite agreement or a rental agreement without a time limit. It emphasizes that the agreement continues to run until it is actively terminated. It is important to distinguish this from fixed-term agreements where the tenancy ends automatically on the contract's expiration date, unless the parties agree to an extension. ## Potential Pitfalls and Tips Even with strong security of tenure, there are things to watch out for. Here are some common pitfalls and tips for navigating correctly: * **Written documentation:** Always ensure that all agreements and terminations are in writing. Verbal agreements may be valid, but they are significantly harder to prove in case of a dispute. * **Understand your notice period:** Be sure to calculate your notice period correctly. It begins on the first day of the month following the notice. * **Indefinite rental contract:** Always check that your rental contract is indeed an indefinite agreement if that is what you desire. Sometimes, wording can be unclear. * **Avoid disturbances:** To avoid jeopardizing your living situation, make sure not to disturb your neighbors or neglect the apartment. * **Rent negotiations:** Remember that rent can be negotiated, even in a rolling agreement. This often occurs through negotiations between the Tenants' Association (Hyresgästföreningen) and property owners. ## Frequently Asked Questions about Rental Agreements Without Time Limit ### What is the difference between an indefinite agreement and a fixed-term agreement? An indefinite agreement, or a rental agreement without a time limit, runs indefinitely and requires a notice of termination to end. A fixed-term agreement has a set expiration date and ends automatically if not extended. ### Can a landlord terminate my rental agreement without a time limit if I have a dog? Generally, a landlord cannot terminate the agreement solely because you have a pet, as long as the pet does not cause unreasonable nuisance (e.g., damage or strong odors). However, check your specific contract for any clauses. ### What is the notice period for a rental agreement without a time limit? For the tenant, the normal notice period is three months. For the landlord, it is also usually three months, but can be longer depending on the length of the tenancy and requires valid reasons. ### What happens if I don't pay my rent on time? If you don't pay your rent on time, you risk termination. For repeated or gross negligence, the landlord can terminate the agreement with immediate effect or after a shorter notice period. It is important to always pay rent by the due date. ### Can I sublet my apartment with an indefinite agreement? Yes, but you usually need the landlord's permission for subletting. Even if you have an indefinite agreement, you must follow the rules for subletting to avoid problems.