What it is
Property formation is a measure under the Act that changes the property division, creates, changes or cancels easements, or moves a building to another property (chapter 1, section 1). The common forms are subdivision (a new property from an existing one), reallotment (land moved between properties), partition (a co-owned property split) and amalgamation.
The suitability test
Each new or changed property must be lastingly suited to its purpose given its location, size and other conditions, be well shaped with access to a road, and – if it is to be built on – be able to get acceptable water and sewerage (chapter 3, section 1). Within a detailed plan the measure may not conflict with the plan.
From the law
«Fastighetsbildning ska ske så att varje fastighet som nybildas eller ombildas blir med hänsyn till belägenhet, omfång och övriga förutsättningar varaktigt lämpad för sitt ändamål.»
The procedure
A cadastral surveyor leads the procedure; two lay members may take part if the surveyor finds it needed or a party asks (chapter 4, section 1). The procedure is charged for; in some municipalities, among them the City of Stockholm, it is run by the municipality's own cadastral authority instead of Lantmäteriet.
Laws change. Always check the version in force and consult a lawyer about your own case. The Swedish text of the law is the authoritative one.
Sources
The Real Property Formation Act (1970:988) 1 kap. 1 §, 3 kap. 1 §, 4 kap. 1 §. Read 21 Oct 2026. The Swedish text of the law is the authoritative one; the quotations are in Swedish.