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What do I need to know when renovating in Finland?
Renovating a property in Finland involves navigating specific regulations, permits, and practices that may differ from other countries.
Whether you're updating a bathroom, modernizing your kitchen, or undertaking a complete home renovation in Finland, understanding the local requirements is essential for a successful project.
Finnish renovation regulations and permits
Since January 1, 2025, Finland has implemented a new Construction Law (Rakentamislaki) that replaced the previous Land Use and Building Act. This significant change consolidated building permits, action permits, and action notifications into a single construction permit (rakennuslupa). Under the new regulations, smaller structures under 30 m² intended for non-residential use can now be built with just a personal notification without requiring a permit process.
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For more extensive renovations that involve changes to the building's essential characteristics, significant changes in usage, or modifications to protected buildings, you will need to obtain a construction permit. The application process typically takes 1-2 months depending on your municipality.
Note! Whenever you are planning a renovation it is a good idea to contact your local building control department, as the regulations can vary between municipalities.
Inspections before renovation
A condition inspection (kuntotarkastus) is strongly recommended before purchasing property or starting major renovations in Finland. While not legally required, these inspections can identify potential issues with the structure, moisture damage, or other problems that may affect your renovation plans and budget.
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It's important to remember that "inspection completed" does not mean the property is free from defects. These inspections are typically conducted visually without opening structures, which means that hidden issues may not always be detected. When selecting an inspector, look for professionals with FISE certification (specifically the AKK qualification), as there are no legally mandated qualification requirements for inspectors in Finland.
Renovating a bathroom in Finland
Bathroom renovations in Finland require special attention due to strict moisture control regulations. Most bathroom renovations will require a construction permit, especially if you're changing the layout or water installations. Finnish bathrooms must have proper waterproofing (vesieristys), and it is recommended, although not required, that waterproofing is done by certified professionals with a proper certificate (VTT-sertifikaatti).
A fully renovated bathroom can cost between 2 500 € - 15 000 € depending on size and quality of materials, with projects typically taking 2-3 weeks to complete.
Preparing for a plumbing renovation in your building
Plumbing renovations (putkiremontti) are common in apartment buildings, especially those built 30-50 years ago. If your housing company announces an upcoming plumbing renovation, prepare for a significant project that may require temporary relocation.
The planning phase typically takes about a year before actual construction begins. During this time, the housing company will conduct thorough inspections of the plumbing system, develop project plans, and select methods and choose contractors. Options include traditional pipe replacement, pipe lining, or pipe insertion methods, each with different costs, timelines, and longevity.
How much does a plumbing renovation in Finland cost?
The average cost is approximately 500 € - 600 € per square meter. However this varies widely depending on the building's age, size, and renovation method.
During the active renovation phase, which can last from a few weeks to several months, water service will be interrupted, and bathroom facilities may be unavailable. Most residents arrange temporary accommodation during this period, so plan accordingly and budget for these additional living costs.
Finding professional help for your renovation in Finland
For successful renovations, working with qualified professionals who understand local building codes is essential. Professional contractors can help navigate permit requirements, ensure compliance with technical standards, and provide documentation needed for inspections and approvals.
By understanding Finnish renovation regulations, planning carefully, and working with qualified professionals, your renovation project can proceed smoothly while meeting all local requirements. Find professionals in your area easily at Urakkamaailma!
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