Civilisation means construction. We all live and work in built environments. Physical facilities are necessary for the utilisation of the environment and natural resources.

Construction is enabled and controlled by zoning legislation and the Building Code. Knowledge of this legislation is vital in building projects.

Ownership of owner-occupied housing in Finland is organised using housing corporations – a system that is unique to our country. When dealing with a housing corporation, you need to be well versed not only in the legal norms governing building, but also the Finnish Housing Companies Act.

Finnish environmental protection legislation was unified only in recent decades. The process began in the 1990s. Around the same time, Finland’s EU membership ushered in pressure to harmonise domestic legislation with the requirements of EU laws

In addition to zoning and the necessary building permits, environmental permits have to be secured for construction projects. In certain projects, environmental impacts must be evaluated in advance. This is essential for keeping the project on track.

About 86% of Finland is silviculture land. As a result, Finland has a thriving forest industry. Complex legislation regulates both the utilisation of forests and their protection. When conflicts arise, knowledge of this legislation is vital for solving the mutual legal relationships between communities and citizens. A typical example of a conflict-prone situation is the use of private roads.

At Heikkilä & Co, we put all our expertise and experience at your disposal to help you start up building and housing projects as well as arrange the required advance surveys and permits. Dealings with the authorities and any disputes are solved amicably by negotiation where possible. We handle appeal processes promptly and competently.