For Polish companies carrying out contracts in Scandinavia, a Byggnads inspection (by the Swedish construction workers’ union) is one of the biggest operational challenges. In 2026, these are no longer just routine visits. We are seeing a clear shift in approach from the Swedish trade union organisation Byggnads, which represents thousands of construction workers. The union has become more proactive, reaching out directly to workers from Poland.
The union’s new strategy – the “Polish Club”
A major development in recent years was the creation of a structure dedicated to Polish workers. Paweł Zajdel took the lead on this initiative in the construction sector. As chairman of the Polish club Byggnads Stockholm Gotlandia, he has brought about a situation where the language barrier no longer protects unscrupulous employers.
This is the first ever Polish-language branch of the Swedish trade union Byggnads. Its goal is to fight discrimination. Union members frequently share stories of workers who, upon hearing “jaevla polack” (bloody Pole), were afraid to report irregularities. Today, thanks to education and awareness, construction workers are speaking up more and more.
What does an inspection cover?
Inspectors verify whether workers employed by subcontractors – even those working on the same site – receive worse rates than their Swedish colleagues. The table below outlines the key areas checked during an audit:
Why do inspections happen?
The trigger often comes from the workers themselves. Statistics show that people seek help from unions only when they have a problem – for example, when their final pay has not been received. At that point, a Byggnads inspection reviews the entire employment history of the company.
The union fights not only for wages, but also for working conditions, a shorter working week and better social benefits. Securing minimum pay increases is cited as the main objective in collective agreement negotiations.
Summary
Legal work in Sweden requires transparency. As an employer, you need to remember that fighting a trade union is not the way forward – cooperating with it on clear terms is. The solution is professional HR management.
Are you worried whether your documentation would stand up to scrutiny from union representatives? Contact Revea’s accounting office. We will review your contracts and payroll calculations before an inspector shows up on site.
