Landlords

Renting out your home to a family member – rules, rent and things to consider

Renting out your home to a child, parent, sibling or another relative may feel like a safe option. You already know each other, and there is often an established level of trust.

However, the same rules generally apply as for any other second-hand rental. That is why it is important not to let your personal relationship replace requirements such as obtaining permission, signing a tenancy agreement and making clear arrangements from the outset.

In this guide, we explain what applies when renting out your home to a family member or someone close to you, and how to make the rental safe and straightforward for both parties.

Thinking about renting out your home to a family member or another relative? Create a free listing on Samtrygg and get help with everything from tenancy agreements and tenant screening to a rent guarantee and rental insurance.

Do the same rules apply when renting to a family member?

Yes. Renting out your home to a child, parent, sibling or friend does not change the rules for second-hand rentals. You must still comply with the rules that apply to your particular type of home.

This means, among other things, that:

• Any required permissions must still be obtained
• A written tenancy agreement should be prepared
• The rent must comply with the rules that apply to your type of home
• The rental should be documented in the same way as any other rental

Many problems that arise when renting to family members or friends are not caused by legal issues, but by expectations that were never clearly discussed from the beginning.

Do you need permission to rent out your home to a family member?

In most cases, yes.

Tenant-owned apartment

If you own a tenant-owned apartment, you will generally need approval from your housing cooperative before the rental begins.

Renting out your apartment to a child or another family member may be considered a valid reason for a second-hand rental, but the housing cooperative will always assess each application individually.

When the housing cooperative reviews an application for second-hand letting, previous rentals should carry less weight. The assessment should instead focus more on your current circumstances and the reasons for the rental.

Rental apartment

If you rent a rental apartment, you will generally need permission from your landlord. If permission is denied, you may in some cases apply to the Rent Tribunal for approval.

You must be able to demonstrate a valid reason for renting out the apartment, such as:

• Working in another location
• Studying in another location
• Living with a partner on a trial basis
• A longer stay abroad
• Illness or other special circumstances

Wanting to help a family member with housing is not always sufficient on its own to obtain permission to sublet a rental apartment. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Read more in our guide to permissions for second-hand rentals.

How much rent can you charge?

The rent must comply with the rules that apply to the type of home you are renting out.

For rental apartments, special rules apply regarding utility value and reasonable rent.

For tenant-owned apartments, houses and holiday homes, the Private Residential Lettings Act applies. It gives landlords greater freedom to set the rent based on market demand, while still providing protection against significantly excessive rent.

Not sure what a reasonable rent would be? Try Samtrygg’s Rent Calculator and receive an estimate based on statistics from thousands of completed rentals.

Always use a tenancy agreement – even with family and friends

One of the most common mistakes when renting to a family member or friend is skipping the formalities because you already know each other.

That may work as long as everything goes according to plan. However, if circumstances change, questions can quickly arise about, for example:

• How long the rental should last
• How much rent should be paid
• Who is responsible for different costs
• What applies if either party wants to terminate the agreement
• Which furnishings and inventory are included

For this reason, we always recommend preparing:

• A tenancy agreement
• An inventory list
• A move-in inspection report
• A key receipt

This creates clarity for both parties and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.

Why many landlords choose Samtrygg

Even when renting to a family member or someone you know well, it can be reassuring to let an independent party handle the practical aspects.

When you rent out your home through Samtrygg, you benefit from:

• Legally prepared tenancy agreements
• Digital signing
• Rent guarantee for up to 12 months
• Rental insurance
• Access to an inventory list, move-in inspection report and key receipt
• Personal support throughout the entire rental period

This gives both you and your tenant clear terms and a secure rental process.

Frequently asked questions about renting to a family member

Do I need permission to rent to a family member?

Yes. If you are renting out a tenant-owned apartment or a rental apartment, you will generally need the same permissions as for any other second-hand rental. If you are renting out a house or a holiday home that you own, permission is generally not required.

Do I need a tenancy agreement even when renting to a family member?

Yes. A written tenancy agreement clearly defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or future disputes.

Can I charge rent when renting to a family member?

Yes. However, the rent must comply with the rules that apply to your type of home. For tenant-owned apartments, houses and holiday homes, the Private Residential Lettings Act applies. Rental apartments are instead subject to the rules on utility value and reasonable rent.

Should I document the condition of the home?

Yes. Even when renting to a family member, it is a good idea to prepare an inventory list, a move-in inspection report and a key receipt before the tenant moves in.

How can Samtrygg help?

Samtrygg supports you throughout the entire rental process, from legally prepared tenancy agreements and digital signing to a rent guarantee, rental insurance and personal support.

Summary

Renting out your home to a family member or someone close to you can be a great way to help a loved one find housing. However, it is important to remember that the same rules generally apply as for any other second-hand rental.

By obtaining any necessary permissions, setting a reasonable rent and using clear written agreements, you can create a safe and secure rental experience for both parties.

Create a free listing on Samtrygg and start renting out your home today.

Last updated 8 July 2026.