Claiming an Abandoned Property in Sweden: Understanding the Legal and Social Landscape

Introduction

Sweden, known for its modern and efficient society, has stringent laws regarding real estate ownership and property rights. Unlike the perception of having abandoned or unclaimed properties, all real estates in Sweden have an owner. However, the legal process for claiming an abandoned property in Sweden can be complex and may involve several steps. This article aims to shed light on the process and provide insights into recent successful squatting cases that challenge traditional property rights.

Sweden's Property Rights and Land Ownership

Sweden's legal framework ensures that every piece of land has an owner. Since the 16th century, any land without an official owner has been declared the property of the crown. Although there may be misconceptions about the existence of abandoned properties, it is important to understand that all land, even in what might be considered 'wilderness', has a legal owner. In the past, pioneers who sought to farm new lands needed permission from the authorities, and the process was highly regulated.

Today, the Kommun, or municipality, holds supreme power in deciding where people can live. Any attempt to build a house requires approval from the Kommun, as they determine land usage for housing. Consequently, the desire to live in areas classified as 'wilderness' is heavily restricted, and the construction of new houses in such areas is not permitted.

Claiming an Abandoned Property

Due to the rigid legal framework, claiming an abandoned property in Sweden is not straightforward. Properties have records and owners, and it is crucial to verify ownership. The following steps outline the process:

1. Locating the Owner

The first step in claiming an abandoned property is to locate the current owner. Property records can be accessed through local property registers or online databases. Once the owner is identified, they can be contacted to negotiate the acquisition of the property. This process can vary depending on the current state of the property and the potential value to the owner.

2. Negotiating a Purchase

Considering the age and potential state of disrepair of an abandoned property, it is likely that the property's value has declined significantly. Therefore, it is realistic to negotiate a lower purchase price with the owner. If the property is owned by a landlord company or the government, the purchase process will be similar but may involve additional bureaucratic steps.

3. Alternative Options: Squatting

If the property is in a highly disrepair state and the owner is uninterested in selling, another option is to squat the property. While Sweden does not have explicit squatters' rights, the legal framework for such claims is not as strict as in some other countries. If the property is not in use and not scheduled for destruction, the occupants may face minimal legal repercussions.

It is essential to note that attempts to squat can become political issues. If the property belongs to the government, the squat may be recognized, and the government could face public and political scrutiny. However, this does not guarantee success, and the situation can vary widely depending on the context and the specific circumstances of the property.

Historical Examples: Successful Squatting Cases

Throughout Sweden's history, there have been notable cases of successful squats. Here are two prominent examples:

1. Sollefte Matseryd Maternity Ward

In Sollefte, a maternity ward that was shut down four years ago has been occupied by activists and hospital staff who were protesting its closure. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the occupation was managed digitally, proving that resistance can continue in the virtual space as well. Despite the physical absence of occupants, the government recognized the ward as occupied. This case highlights the resilience of the activists in thwarting their own government's decisions.

2. J?nk?ping Fire Station Squatting

During the 1970s, in J?nk?ping, a fire station was shut down, and local youths quickly began squatting the building. The municipality, recognizing the immediate need for the building, made an agreement with the squatters. In exchange for allowing them to use a larger, old match factory, the squatters were granted the right to occupy and manage the fire station. This squat eventually turned into a full occupation, lasting for several decades. The squatters established Kulturhuset, a cultural center, and in 2014, the municipality officially signed over the ownership to the organization created by the initial squatters. This case demonstrates the potential for squatting to lead to long-term positive outcomes.

Conclusion

Claiming an abandoned property in Sweden is a complex process that requires thorough research and a clear understanding of the legal landscape. Whether through purchasing the property or squatting, the success of such attempts can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances and local regulations. Historical examples like the Sollefte maternity ward and J?nk?ping fire station squats show that these alternatives can often lead to positive outcomes, although the path to success can be intricate and sometimes uncertain.