What does it mean?
An Attefall house is an accessory building of up to 30 square meters that since 2014 can be built without a building permit on a property with an existing one- or two-family home. The name comes from then-Housing Minister Stefan Attefall who pushed through the legislative change. The building requires a notification to the municipal building committee and a start approval before construction begins.
Attefall houses have become enormously popular as guest houses, home offices, and rental units. As an accessory dwelling, it can have a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom — a complete home. When rented out, the Private Rental Act applies if the owner lives on the same property, meaning the tenant has no tenant protection. The building may have a maximum ridge height of 4 meters and must be placed at least 4.5 meters from the property boundary without the neighbor's consent.
Key Points
- Max 30 sqm — requires notification but not building permit since 2014
- Ridge height max 4 meters, at least 4.5 meters from property boundary
- Can be fitted as a complete dwelling with kitchen and bathroom
- When rented out, the Private Rental Act often applies (no tenant protection)
- Start approval from the municipality required before construction begins
Practical Tip
Always check with your municipality before building — the local plan may have special provisions that limit possibilities. As a tenant in an Attefall house, be aware that the Private Rental Act often applies, providing weaker protection.
Legal Basis: Planning and Building Act Ch. 9, § 4a