Living in university accommodation for researchers

This page provides an overview of what you need to know while living in university-arranged accommodation provided by Stockholm University. It includes practical guidance on your contract, rent, maintenance, safety, and your responsibilities as a tenant.

If something is broken or not working, report it anytime through the Service Portal.

Everyday life

This section offers practical advice for managing everyday situations and minor issues that may arise during your stay.

Some problems – like a blocked drain or a blown fuse – can be solved easily by following a few simple steps.

Watch how-to videos

Please avoid loud music or other noise after 22.00. If security is called due to a disturbance, you may be fined. Repeated complaints can result in termination of your rental contract.

If you are disturbed by neighbours

  • Try to resolve the situation politely.
  • For serious disturbances, call the emergency number provided in your rental contract.
  • Your identity will remain anonymous if you file a complaint.
  • If needed, contact the Student Health Service for advice.

Quiet hours

  • Weekdays: 22.00–07.00
  • Weekends and public holidays: 22.00–10.00

Indoor temperatures in Swedish housing during winter are normally around 20°C, measured as an average. This means that a temperature between 19–20°C is considered normal. Variations slightly above or below are expected.

Radiators automatically switch off when the indoor temperature reaches 20°C. If they feel cold, it usually means your room is already warm enough. Heating is generally activated when the outdoor temperature remains below 15°C for several days. System settings may vary slightly between buildings.

If you feel cold, try wearing warm clothes, using slippers, and drinking hot beverages.

Before reporting a heating issue:

  • Measure the room temperature one metre above the floor and one metre from the outer wall.
  • Report the issue only if the temperature stays below 20 °C for three consecutive days.

Heating systems in Sweden (Stockholms studentbostäder)

Lost keys can be reported to the Housing Office or Service Centre. In case of lost keys outside the working hours, tenants must contact the property owner’s emergency number. A charge for the provided service will occur. A fine for a new key will be charged.

Opening hours Service Centre

You can find your letterbox in the main entrance or by the entrance to your corridor. Remember to put your name up when you move in. Fore some areas you need to by a padlock for the letterbox.

Several delivery companies operate in Stockholm. If you have problems with mail delivery, it is your responsibility to contact the company you used.

If a parcel does not fit in the letterbox, it is usually delivered to the nearest service point. You will receive a message with collection details.

The Housing Office cannot accept or store letters, parcels, bags or suitcases on your behalf.

Pest infestations, such as bedbugs, can unfortunately occur – often after travel. To minimise the risk:

  • Wash and clean clothes and bags thoroughly after travelling.
  • Never store bags or luggage under your bed – this is an ideal hiding place for bedbugs.
  • Clean your accommodation regularly.

Signs of infestation may include small black dots (droppings) on bedding or bite marks on uncovered skin.

If you discover pests in your room or anywhere in the building, you must report it immediately via a maintenance request in the Service Portal. This is a legal obligation.

  • Decontamination is free of charge.
  • You will not be penalised for reporting pests.
  • Always report suspected pests – even if you're unsure.

Pets are not permitted in any of our accommodations or common areas.

You are responsible for sorting waste correctly. Follow the instructions and signs in your building.

  • Sort and dispose of rubbish and recycling according to local guidelines.
  • Food waste must be disposed of in the correct bins – never in recycling or bulky waste areas. Do not leave waste in communal areas or outside the flat.
  • Always push waste fully into recycling or bulky waste rooms. Fold cardboard boxes to save space.
  • Do not throw cigarette butts, paper or rubbish on the ground or out the window.
  • A fee will be charged for anything that staff need to clean, collect or move – this includes shared spaces, outdoor areas, and recycling rooms.

Sustainable living in your accommodation

Keeping a clean and comfortable home

To help ensure a pleasant and healthy living environment for everyone, please maintain regular cleaning throughout your tenancy. A clean home not only supports your well-being but also helps prevent damage and wear over time.

Please follow the simple guidelines below to keep your apartment in great condition.

Practical cleaning tips

  • Do not pour hot oil into the sink – wipe with kitchen paper and dispose of it properly.
  • Clean under and behind the fridge regularly to prevent fire hazards.

  • Vacuum or sweep floors weekly.
  • Dust surfaces, skirting boards, and furniture regularly.
  • Avoid accumulation of clutter and rubbish.

  • Wipe down countertops and appliances after use.
  • Clean hob and oven regularly to prevent grease build-up.
  • Empty bins frequently and keep the area hygienic.
  • Check and clean the fridge weekly to avoid expired food.

  • Clean toilet, sink, and shower/bath at least once a week.
  • Wipe mirrors and tiles to prevent mould and limescale.
  • Ensure good ventilation to reduce dampness.

  • Open windows regularly to air out the apartment.

  • Wipe window sills and frames as needed.

Living together means sharing responsibility for keeping common areas clean and pleasant for everyone. To help with this:

  • Hold regular house meetings to divide cleaning tasks fairly.
  • Agree on a cleaning schedule that suits everyone’s routines.
  • Use meetings to follow up on any issues or disagreements in a respectful and constructive way.

Clear communication and teamwork go a long way in creating a comfortable and cooperative home environment.

Tenancy agreement

This section provides information about rent, extending your stay, and important rules regarding your tenancy.

Rent is paid monthly in advance by card via your Accommodation Account. If you have any issues with payment, contact the Housing Office before the due date to avoid late fees.

You can apply to extend your stay, but requests must be submitted at least three months before your tenancy ends. The maximum rental period is two years, and extensions are not guaranteed.

Apply for extension

Subletting is strictly forbidden and results in immediate termination of the lease.

Safety

All tenants must follow a few essential rules to ensure a safe and respectful housing environment.

Always lock your door, don’t let strangers in, and never block corridors or stairwells.

Keep apartment and staircase doors closed – they stop smoke and fire.

Never store anything in corridors or stairwells. These are evacuation routes. No shoes, bikes, garbage bags or packages. Items will be removed without notice – fines may apply.

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all rooms, apartments and shared areas.

1. Rescue

Evacuate yourself and assist others if it is safe to do so. Do not put yourself at risk. If that’s not possible, stay in your room and close all doors. Rescue services can reach you through a window if needed.

2. Alert – call 112

Call 112 and clearly explain what happened and where you are.

3. Extinguish – only if safe

Only try to put out a small fire if you’re not in danger.
Never risk your own or others’ safety.

Keep in mind:

  • Stay low – smoke rises.
  • Use the stairs – never the lift.
  • Avoid smoke-filled areas.
  • Close doors behind you.
  • Don’t open a warm or closed door.

Most rooms are equipped with ceiling-mounted smoke detectors. Test your detector when you move in by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds.

You are responsible for regularly checking that your smoke detector is working properly.
Tampering with, removing or damaging the smoke detector is strictly forbidden.

If the detector beeps or blinks continuously, change the battery. If it still doesn’t work after changing the battery or if you’re unable to change the battery yourself, report the issue immediately via the Service Portal. 

Smoke detectors connected to the main fire alarm system

At the accommodations Svarta villan, Hovbeslag, Grindstugan, Trädgårdsvillan and Konsulentvillan, the smoke detectors are connected to the main fire alarm system and must not be turned off.

If you experience any issues with the smoke detectors, please report the problem via the Service Portal.

What applies to your building

Some practical details – such as internet access, laundry rooms, or how to use your key – vary depending on where you live. Visit the page for your accommodation area to find out what applies to you.

Find your accommodation area

Contact

Last updated: 2026-03-13

Source: Property Management Office