Common Tenant Mistakes Finding Student Housing Norway
Before viewings
As a tenant you should use the viewing to check both the apartment's condition and the financial details. Ask about previous damages, heating/ventilation and shared costs. Also read briefly about tenant rights under the Tenancy Act on lovdata.no and what they mean for you Tenancy Act[1].
- Inspect and document the condition with photos and a written note.
- Ask to see the standard lease and check if it is fixed-term or indefinite.
- Clarify the deposit, monthly rent and which bills are included.
- Be aware of signs of damp, mold or lack of heating that may require repairs.
During contract negotiation
Read the whole lease carefully. Check notice periods, who is responsible for maintenance, and whether there are additional clauses about house rules or shared costs. Request written confirmation if anything is to be changed in the agreement.
- Check deadlines for termination and specific dates in the contract.
- Request that verbal agreements are written into the contract.
- Clarify when the deposit will be returned and what deductions may apply.
If problems and disputes arise
If disagreements occur about deposit, maintenance or termination, you can file a complaint with the Tenancy Disputes Board for fast handling. Read more about procedures and which cases HTU handles at Husleietvistutvalget[2]. For cases not resolved at HTU, the conciliation board or courts may be the next step; check information at domstol.no about process and deadlines The Courts[3].
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord demand for a deposit?
- A landlord can normally request a deposit, often up to three months' rent, but the terms must be clear and in line with the Tenancy Act.
- What do I do if the landlord does not repair necessary maintenance?
- Send a written notice to the landlord and document the defect. If it is not remedied, you can contact the Tenancy Disputes Board or seek legal assistance.
- Can the landlord terminate the tenancy without reason?
- Termination must be objectively justified and follow the rules in the Tenancy Act; unreasonable or repeated terminations may be invalid.
How to
- Take photos of all rooms and create a short condition report before moving in.
- Send written confirmation to the landlord of any changes or verbal agreements.
- Contact the landlord first to resolve minor disputes directly and note the communications.
- If unresolved, file a formal complaint to the Tenancy Disputes Board with documentation.
- Prepare evidence such as photos, receipts and messages before contacting HTU or the courts.
- Attend hearings prepared and follow procedural guidance from HTU or the courts.
