Fire Safety in Housing
Civil Protection Act (2003:778), Boverket's Building Regulations (BBR) section 5
What does it mean?
Fire safety in housing encompasses preventive measures and equipment that reduce the risk of fire and its consequences. Since 1999, smoke alarms have been legally required in all Swedish homes — the resident is responsible for ensuring the alarm works. The property owner is responsible for fire safety in common areas such as stairwells, basements, and attic spaces.
Fire safety fundamentals in apartment buildings include fire doors in stairwells (EI 60, must always be kept closed), escape routes (at least two per apartment — door and window/balcony), fire extinguisher and fire blanket in the kitchen, and fire compartmentation to prevent fire spread. The property owner must conduct systematic fire protection work (SBA) with regular inspections.
Key Points
- Smoke alarms have been legally required in all homes since 1999
- The resident is responsible for ensuring the alarm works and has battery
- The property owner is responsible for common areas and fire doors
- Every apartment must have at least two escape routes
- Fire doors in stairwells must always be kept closed (EI 60)
Practical Tip
Test your smoke alarm monthly and replace the battery annually (or when it beeps). Keep a fire extinguisher and fire blanket available in the kitchen. Learn the evacuation plan — identify both escape routes. Never store flammable materials in the stairwell — it's prohibited and life-threatening.
Legal Basis: Civil Protection Act (2003:778), Boverket's Building Regulations (BBR) section 5