Here are 7 common questions and answers in the category noise & neighbours for the Swedish construction industry. Every answer is anchored in primary law (PBL, BBR, KTjL, AFS, ABS 18, AB 04) and authoritative guidance. The data is open and free to use with attribution.
There is no general Swedish law on working hours for construction, but the municipality's local public order regulations and Naturvårdsverket's guidance NFS 2004:15 on noise from construction sites set reference values. Disturbing noise is typically permitted weekdays 07-19 and Saturdays 08-17.
Sources: NFS 2004:15 · Naturvårdsverket
Naturvårdsverket's reference value is 60 dBA equivalent level during daytime (07-19) at a dwelling's facade. Evenings and nights, 50 and 45 dBA respectively apply. Impulse noise such as sheet piling or percussive drilling must be avoided at night.
Sources: NFS 2004:15
Under AFS 2005:16 on noise, the employer must assess risks and take action when noise exceeds 80 dB(A). Hearing protection must be provided and mandatory use applies above 85 dB(A). The maximum permitted exposure is 85 dB(A) as a daily average.
Sources: AFS 2005:16
The neighbour can turn to the municipal environmental office, which can intervene under Miljöbalken 9 kap. 3 § if the noise constitutes a nuisance to human health. The environmental committee can order measures or limited working hours if needed.
Sources: Miljöbalken 9 kap. 3 § · Miljöbalken 26 kap.
There is no general obligation, but in the neighbour hearing under PBL 9 kap. 25 § neighbours must be given the opportunity to comment before a permit is granted for a deviation from the detailed plan. For contract works close to a neighbour's property, early dialogue is recommended to avoid disputes. Zaragoza AB always informs neighbours before major works.
Sources: PBL 9 kap. 25 §
Yes, under Miljöbalken 32 kap. 1 §, damages may be awarded for nuisance from an activity exceeding what a neighbour should reasonably tolerate. Damages may cover financial loss, reduced property value and personal discomfort.
Sources: Miljöbalken 32 kap. 1 §
BBR 7:2 sets requirements for sound class C per SS 25267 for dwellings. This includes, among other things, a maximum of 30 dBA indoor traffic noise and a maximum of 22 dBA from installations. In new construction, sound measurement must document compliance.
Sources: BBR 7:2 · SS 25267