tjänstebostäder

Tjänstebostäder, which translates to "service residences" or "company housing" in English, refers to housing provided by an employer to its employees as part of their employment agreement. This arrangement is common in various sectors, particularly for positions that require the employee to live in a specific location due to the nature of their work or to be readily available.

Historically, tjänstebostäder were prevalent in many professions, including teachers, clergy, railway workers, and factory managers, where proximity to the workplace was essential. The housing could range from simple apartments to larger houses. The provision of such housing often came with specific conditions regarding occupancy, maintenance, and termination upon the end of employment.

In modern Sweden, the prevalence of traditional tjänstebostäder has decreased compared to previous decades. However, similar arrangements still exist, often referred to by different terms or integrated into more flexible compensation packages. For instance, employers might offer housing allowances or subsidized rent in certain cases, especially for employees relocating for work or those in remote areas where private rental options are scarce. The core principle remains that the housing is directly linked to the employment and its terms are defined by the employer-employee contract. Changes in employment status, such as resignation or termination, typically necessitate vacating the tjänstebostad.