Accessibility: Tenant Rights in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, you have the right to a home that is accessible and usable, especially if you have reduced functional ability. This article explains what accessibility (universal design) means for tenancy, which landlord obligations usually follow from the Tenancy Act, and what requests you can make for adaptations. You will get practical advice on how to request changes, document needs, and what to do if the landlord refuses or fails to act. We also describe complaint options with the Tenancy Disputes Board and where to find official guidance in Norway. The language is plain, aiming to help you as a tenant understand realistic steps and how to protect your rights.
What is universal design?
Universal design means that homes should be accessible and usable for as many people as possible without special adaptations. For tenancies, this concerns access, door widths, bathrooms, kitchens, and safe use of the dwelling. Some requirements follow directly from the Tenancy Act and related practice, while others depend on technical regulations or municipal rules. Husleieloven[1]
What can you do as a tenant?
- Send a written request (file) to the landlord proposing necessary adaptations.
- Document the need with medical notes or photos/video (photo) showing problems.
- Clarify who pays for technical adjustments and whether changes can be reversed when moving out (repair).
- Seek advice from the Tenancy Disputes Board or local housing offices if the landlord does not respond.
Rights and obligations
The landlord is responsible for ensuring the dwelling is in a proper condition and that significant defects are repaired. The tenant must report defects and give the landlord reasonable time to fix them. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can complain to the Tenancy Disputes Board or take the matter to the courts. See guidance from the Tenancy Disputes Board for practical information on the complaint process. [2]
Practical steps for requesting adaptations
Start by identifying the concrete changes needed. Be specific in your request and suggest solutions that are reasonable and reversible where possible. Note deadlines and the landlord's responses, and keep all documents.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I require the landlord to install a ramp or door automation?
- You can request such measures, and the landlord must consider the request. Cost allocation depends on what is reasonable and on the lease terms.
- What if the landlord refuses?
- Document the request in writing, demand a justification, and consider filing a case with the Tenancy Disputes Board or pursuing legal action.
- Who pays for adaptations required by disability?
- It depends on the nature of the measures; some changes may be the tenant's responsibility, others the landlord's, and many cases are resolved by dialogue or by HTU/court decisions.
How-To
- Document the need with descriptions and photos/video and any medical documentation.
- Write a formal request to the landlord with proposed solutions and a reasonable deadline.
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Board for advice if the landlord does not respond or rejects the request.
- Consider bringing the case to the conciliation board or district court if no agreement is reached.
Key takeaways
- Always send requests in writing and keep documentation.
- Small technical measures can often significantly improve accessibility.
