Due diligence in Denmark
The home inspection scheme, what the reports do and do not cover, change-of-ownership insurance and registered encumbrances.
Applies to: Denmark. Reviewed 2026-09-25.
Key takeaways
- The seller provides a condition report and an electrical installation report under the scheme.
- If the buyer is offered change-of-ownership insurance and the seller pays half the premium, the seller is freed from liability for defects covered by the reports.
- The reports are visual. Your own building survey is worth the money for older houses.
The home inspection scheme
The seller can be freed from liability for defects described in the condition and electrical reports if the reports exist when the buyer signs, the buyer is offered change-of-ownership insurance and the seller pays half the premium.
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| K0 | Cosmetic damage without effect on function |
| K1 | Minor damage that should be fixed |
| K2 | Serious damage that may soon affect function |
| K3 | Critical damage already affecting function |
| UN | Needs further investigation |
Documents to read
- Registered easements and covenants: rights of way, building restrictions, utilities.
- Energy label with suggested improvements.
- Building register data and permits for extensions.
- Local plan and the municipality's plans for the area.
- Soil contamination and flood risk.
The seller must have a valid energy label when the home is sold.
Questions to ask
- Which items are graded K2 or K3, and what will they cost to fix?
- Are installations and extensions lawful and approved?
Red flags
- Many K3 remarks on roof, foundations or wet rooms.
- The report marks central building parts as needing further investigation.
Sources
- Using the home inspection scheme when buying and selling a house (Sikkerhedsstyrelsen)
- Act on consumer protection when acquiring real property (Retsinformation)
- The Danish land registry (Tinglysningsretten)
- When must buildings have an energy label? (Energistyrelsen)