Asbestos in Housing
Swedish Work Environment Authority regulations AFS 2006:1 (asbestos), AFS 2023:1 (asbestos handling)
What does it mean?
Asbestos is a fibrous material widely used in Swedish buildings until 1982, when it was banned. It is found in floor tiles, fiber cement boards (roof and facade), pipe insulation, ventilation ducts, and tile adhesive. Asbestos remaining intact in a building normally poses no health risk — it is only when the material is worked on, demolished, or damaged that dangerous fibers are released.
Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause serious diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. All work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials must be performed by certified remediation companies with specialized equipment. The property owner is responsible for inventorying asbestos in the building and informing contractors and residents. Before pipe replacement, complete renovation, or demolition of older buildings, an asbestos survey must always be conducted first.
Key Points
- Banned since 1982 but found in buildings from before then
- Common in floor tiles, fiber cement boards, pipe insulation, and tile adhesive
- Safe when intact — hazardous when demolished or disturbed
- Remediation must be performed by certified companies with protective equipment
- The property owner is responsible for inventory and informing residents
Practical Tip
Never make DIY alterations to materials that may contain asbestos in a home built before 1982. During renovation, request that the landlord or housing association conducts an asbestos survey before work begins. If you suspect asbestos material has been damaged, avoid the area and contact the property owner immediately.
Legal Basis: Swedish Work Environment Authority regulations AFS 2006:1 (asbestos), AFS 2023:1 (asbestos handling)