Swedish Home Inspection Checklist: Your Guide to a Safe Deal in Sweden

Wilhelm Gunther7 januari 2026

Why is a Home Inspection So Important When Buying Property in Sweden?

A home inspection in Sweden is a thorough examination of a property's condition, typically conducted by a certified inspector. The primary goal is to identify any defects, deficiencies, or potential problem areas that could affect the property's value or future maintenance costs. Conducting an inspection is not just about protecting your investment; it's also about ensuring the safety and security of you and your family in your new Swedish home.

Engaging a professional inspector provides an unbiased assessment of the property's condition. This can be crucial when negotiating with the seller, as any identified issues can be used as leverage to lower the price or have the problems addressed before finalizing the purchase. Moreover, a home inspection gives you a clearer understanding of the property's long-term maintenance needs, which simplifies planning for future renovations and repairs, common considerations for homeowners in Sweden.

Furthermore, a Swedish home inspection can uncover hidden defects ("dolda fel" in Swedish) for which you, as the buyer, would otherwise be responsible. These are faults that were not visible during a visual inspection and that the buyer had no reason to suspect. Discovering a hidden defect after the purchase can lead to a costly and time-consuming process to get the seller to cover the expenses. A thorough inspection minimizes the risk of such situations.

What Steps Should Expats in Sweden Take Before a Home Inspection?

The preparations leading up to the home inspection are as crucial as the inspection itself. Here's a detailed checklist to ensure you're adequately prepared for a property inspection in Sweden:

Choose a Certified Inspector: Ensure the inspector is certified by SBR (Svenska Byggingenjörers Riksförbund – the Swedish Association of Building Engineers) or Kiwa. This certification guarantees that the individual possesses the required competence and experience to perform a professional inspection in Sweden.
Review the Inspection Protocol: Request a sample of the inspection protocol in advance. Read through it carefully to understand which areas will be examined and how the results will be presented. This is especially important as inspection practices may differ from those in your home country.
Inform the Inspector of Specific Concerns: If you have any specific concerns or questions regarding the house, communicate these to the inspector beforehand. This could include suspected moisture problems, previous renovations, or specific areas of the house you want them to focus on.
Gather Relevant Documentation: Prepare all available documentation about the house, such as drawings, building permits, records from previous inspections, and information about completed renovations. This helps the inspector get a more complete picture of the house's history and condition. Such documentation is often required by Swedish law for property transactions.
Be Available During the Inspection: Try to be present throughout the entire inspection. This allows you to ask questions directly to the inspector and gain a better understanding of any problems that are discovered.
Conduct Your Own Visual Inspection: Before the professional inspection, walk through the house yourself and note any visible defects or deficiencies. This can help you identify areas you want the inspector to examine more closely.

What Should a Comprehensive Home Inspection in Sweden Include?

A comprehensive home inspection in Sweden should be thorough and cover all crucial aspects of the property. Here's a list of the areas that should be included:

Foundation and Basement: Checking for moisture, cracks, settling, and any signs of mold.
Exterior Walls: Examination of facade materials, insulation, windows, and doors. Pay attention to the specific materials used, as some are more common in Sweden and require specific maintenance.
Roof: Checking roof materials, tiles, roof construction, gutters, and downspouts. Snow load is a significant consideration for roofs in Sweden, so ensure this is assessed.
Attic: Inspection of insulation, ventilation, and any signs of moisture or pests.
Water and Sewer Systems: Checking pipes, plumbing, water heater, and drainage.
Electrical System: Examination of electrical panel, wiring, outlets, and grounding. Ensure the system meets current Swedish electrical standards.
Ventilation: Checking the functionality and efficiency of the ventilation system.
Heating System: Examination of heat source, radiators, pipes, and thermostats. Common heating systems in Sweden include district heating, heat pumps, and oil furnaces.
Kitchen and Bathrooms: Checking surfaces, installations, and any signs of moisture.
Property and Land: Examination of drainage, soil conditions, and any potential hazard areas.

The inspector should utilize appropriate tools and methods to perform a thorough examination. This may include moisture measurement, thermography, and visual inspection. The results of the inspection should be documented in a detailed protocol that describes any defects, deficiencies, and risk areas.

What Should You Do During the Home Inspection in Sweden?

During the home inspection in Sweden, it's important to be active and engaged. Here's a checklist to help you get the most out of the inspection:

Accompany the Inspector: Walk around the house with the inspector and ask questions about anything you're unsure about.
Take Notes: Write down the most important points raised during the inspection. This will help you remember the details when you later review the inspection protocol.
Document with Pictures: Take your own pictures of the areas the inspector points out. This can be helpful when discussing any necessary actions with the seller or hiring contractors.
Pay Attention to Smells and Sounds: Notice any unusual smells or sounds that may indicate problems. This could include the smell of mold, moisture, or chemicals, or sounds from leaking pipes or defective appliances.
Ask Questions about Maintenance: Ask the inspector for recommendations for future maintenance of the house. This gives you a better understanding of what measures may be needed in the long term, which is crucial for budgeting as a homeowner in Sweden.

What Happens After the Home Inspection in Sweden?

After the home inspection in Sweden, it's time to analyze the results and decide how you want to proceed. The inspection report will detail any issues found, and you'll need to consider these carefully.

Review the Inspection Report: Carefully read the entire inspection report. Pay close attention to the inspector's recommendations and any identified problems.
Consult with Experts: If the inspection reveals significant issues, consider consulting with relevant experts, such as structural engineers, electricians, or plumbers, for further evaluation and cost estimates.
Negotiate with the Seller: Use the inspection results to negotiate with the seller. You may be able to request repairs, a price reduction, or other concessions. It's common practice in Sweden to renegotiate based on inspection findings.
Re-inspect After Repairs: If the seller agrees to make repairs, consider having the property re-inspected after the repairs are completed to ensure they were done properly.
Make an Informed Decision: Ultimately, the home inspection provides you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase. If the issues are too significant or costly to address, you may choose to walk away from the deal.

What are Common Hidden Defects ("Dolda Fel") in Swedish Homes?

"Dolda fel" are hidden defects that were not apparent during a reasonable inspection and that the buyer could not have reasonably expected. Identifying these is a key reason for getting a home inspection in Sweden.

Moisture Damage: This is a common issue in Sweden, especially in older homes. It can manifest as mold, rot, or structural damage.
Faulty Electrical Wiring: Old or improperly installed electrical wiring can be a fire hazard.
Plumbing Issues: Leaks, corrosion, or blockages in plumbing systems can lead to water damage and other problems.
Foundation Problems: Cracks, settling, or other issues with the foundation can compromise the structural integrity of the house.
Roofing Problems: Leaks, damaged tiles, or other issues with the roof can lead to water damage and structural problems.

FAQ About Home Inspections for Expats in Sweden

Q: Is a home inspection mandatory in Sweden? A: No, a home inspection is not legally mandatory in Sweden. However, it is highly recommended to protect your investment and avoid potential problems.

Q: Who pays for the home inspection in Sweden? A: Typically, the buyer pays for the home inspection in Sweden.

Q: How long does a home inspection take in Sweden? A: The duration of a home inspection depends on the size and complexity of the property, but it usually takes between 2 and 4 hours.

Q: What if the home inspection reveals significant problems? A: If the inspection reveals significant problems, you can negotiate with the seller to have them repaired, request a price reduction, or even withdraw from the purchase agreement.

Q: Can I waive the home inspection in Sweden? A: Yes, you can waive the home inspection, but it is generally not advisable as it leaves you vulnerable to potential hidden defects and costly repairs.

Q: How do I find a certified home inspector in Sweden? A: You can find certified home inspectors through organizations like SBR (Svenska Byggingenjörers Riksförbund) or Kiwa.