What does it mean?
The monthly fee in a housing cooperative (BRF) is the ongoing cost members pay to cover the association's shared expenses. The fee typically includes operations (heating, water, garbage), maintenance of common areas, insurance, and interest and amortization on the association's loans. The fee amount depends on the apartment's share ratio (andelstal).
A high fee isn't necessarily negative — it may mean the association is actively amortizing and has sound finances. A low fee can hide deferred maintenance or large unamortized loans. Always review the association's annual report and maintenance plan before buying. The fee can be increased by decision at the annual general meeting, usually once per year.
Key Points
- Covers operations, maintenance, insurance, and the association's loan costs
- Amount based on the apartment's share ratio in the association
- Low fees can hide deferred maintenance or poor amortization
- Increases are decided at the annual general meeting — usually yearly
- Review annual reports and maintenance plans to assess fee reasonableness
Practical Tip
Don't just look at the fee amount — compare it with what's included. An association charging SEK 4,500/month that amortizes and has low debt may be better than one charging SEK 2,500/month with large debts. Read the annual report carefully.
Legal Basis: Housing Cooperative Act (1991:614) Ch. 7