Henrietta Nyström,  Wednesday, 26 July 2023

 

If you want to buy a house in Sweden, there are some important points to consider during the viewing and questions you should ask. This article explains the most important aspects to help you make your decision.

Building Condition and Renovation Needs
Assess the general condition of the building and check if renovation work is required. Look for signs of moisture, mold, or structural damage. You might need to involve a building surveyor for a thorough assessment.

Heating System and Energy Efficiency
Get information about the house's heating system and check if it's energy efficient. In Sweden, heat pumps and wood heating are common. Also consider the insulation of the house and the quality of the windows.

Internet and Mobile Coverage
Since Sweden is a large country with a sparse population, internet and mobile coverage can be limited in rural areas. Check the availability and speed of the internet connection and mobile coverage.

Connection to Transport and Infrastructure
Consider the house's access to public transport, roads, and its proximity to shopping facilities, schools, and medical facilities.

Property Tax and Additional Costs
Get information about the amount of property tax and additional costs associated with the house. This includes costs for water, sewage, garbage collection, and possibly street cleaning.

Nature Reserves and Environmental Regulations
Inquire if the property or its surroundings are located in a nature reserve or are subject to special environmental regulations. This can impact potential extensions or structural changes.

Insurances
Check what insurances are required for the house and how high the premiums are. In Sweden, building insurance (fastighetsförsäkring) is common, which covers damage from fire, storm, water, and other risks.

Energy Certificate (Energideklaration)
In Sweden, an energy certificate must be issued every ten years. Check if the house has a current energy certificate. If not, the seller has to pay for a new certificate. Exceptions: For houses with less than 50 square meters or a usage duration of less than four months per year, no energy certificate is required.

Mortgages (Pantbrev)
Clarify if there are mortgages that can be taken over. Existing mortgages sometimes offer favorable conditions.

Inventory
In Sweden, it is common for appliances and items like the refrigerator, stove, wardrobe, and washing machine to be counted as part of the building (fast property, "vast goed"). Then there's lös egendom, "loose property," which is not considered a fixed part of a building but is often sold. Discuss with the seller which parts of the inventory you want to take over and which not. Request an inventory list of the items for sale.

Neighborhood
Pay attention to the neighbors: Are there frequent parties or disturbing activities? Get information about the neighborhood to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Municipal Building Plans
Inquire with the municipality if there are plans to build something nearby that could disturb you (e.g., airport or sewage plant).

Water Quality for Lakeside Properties
For houses by the lake, check the water quality with the municipality to ensure it is suitable for swimming.

Property Access
Check the land register (Lantmäteriet) if access to the property goes across another owner's land and if you have a perpetual right of use (Servitut).

Lease or Ownership
Clarify whether the land is "friköpt" (bought out) or only available with "arrendeavgift" (lease).

Pipe Map
Ask the previous owner if they have a map of the terrain showing the location of pipes or power lines.

Water Supply
Clarify whether the water comes from the municipal water supply or a well. Ask about the water quality, test data, and possible issues during dry periods.

Sewage Disposal
Find out about the sewage disposal of the house. Is the current system up-to-date, or does the municipality require modernization? Note that requirements can vary by municipality.

Chimney Condition
Is the chimney in good condition? Every two years, a chimney sweep must carry out a leakage test. Are there current acceptance protocols?

Radon Measurement
Inquire if a radon measurement has been conducted. Radon is a radioactive gas that seeps out of the ground and can cause health problems indoors. In Sweden, radon exposure varies regionally, so it's important to know the radon levels in the house.

When buying a house in Sweden, it is important to pay attention to many different aspects and ask the right questions to ensure you make a well- informed decision. By carefully examining these points, you can identify potential problems and make a well-founded purchase decision.