- We can see that more and more people want to live in micro houses, and the current regulations are not adapted to this form of housing. That is why we want to simplify the rules of construction - says Nikolai Astrup, Minister of Local Government and Modernization.
The government is now proposing revised rules for micro-homes. The proposal contains simplified rules in technical building regulations (TEK17) and building regulations (SAK10).
The proposal allows micro houses to be released from a number of requirements
The proposal allows micro homes to be exempted from a number of requirements in TEK17, so that the requirements for micro homes are essentially the same as those for holiday homes. This includes exceptions to availability requirements. However, micro houses must meet basic safety requirements. The new regulations also mean that the construction of micro-houses on built-up real estate will not require the involvement of responsible companies, and will release micro-houses from the obligation of independent control. This can open up more personal effort in the construction process and save money.
- Micro houses should be good housing for people who want to live in compact buildings. Micro homes need to complement today's housing stock, says Astrup.
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If a house or caravan is to be used as permanent accommodation, it must meet the accommodation requirements
The consultation proposal also includes a definition of a micro home, making it easier to find out what rules apply. The proposal includes micro-houses to be used for residential purposes, regardless of whether they are firmly embedded in the ground, or are standing on wheels or on a trailer. If a house or caravan is to be used as permanent accommodation, it must meet the accommodation requirements in TEK17. Simplified rules apply to detached micro-houses for residential purposes, with a maximum usable area of up to 30 m2.
Micro houses are an international trend. The phenomenon has reached Norway and requires changes to the regulations
- Micro homes are an international trend that is also spreading in Norway. They require less consumption of building materials and plots of land. It can provide cheaper and more environmentally friendly homes, says Astrup.
