Delay in Eviction: Tenant Rights in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, you may in some cases obtain a delay or forbearance when eviction is imminent. This happens when the court, police or landlord has decided that you must vacate, but there are valid reasons to request more time or a temporary suspension of the enforcement. In this article we explain what a delay means for the tenancy, which deadlines apply, what documentation strengthens your application, and how you can seek help from the Tenancy Disputes Tribunal or the courts.[1][2] We write clearly and practically so you can understand the steps that follow if you face eviction. The article also gives practical advice on documentation, communication with the landlord and how to meet deadlines without losing your rights.
What does delay or forbearance mean?
Delay or forbearance means that the execution of an eviction is postponed for a shorter or longer period. It can be granted by the courts, the police or as an agreement between parties if there are reasonable grounds, such as illness, a pending appeal or lack of alternatives for temporary housing. A delay does not necessarily stop rental claims or other tenant obligations.
In many cases you must still pay rent during the delay.
How to request a delay
- Contact the landlord in writing as early as possible and explain why you need more time.
- Obtain documentation showing the reason, such as a medical certificate, confirmation of an application for financial support or correspondence with NAV.
- Send a formal petition or complaint to the authority that decided the eviction if this is possible.
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Tribunal or the court for guidance on the process or to request a temporary injunction.
Request written confirmation of all inquiries and responses from the landlord or authorities.
Deadlines and payments during delay
Deadlines to appeal or request a delay are often short. Even if you receive a delay, claims for rent and other accrued costs may still apply. It is important to meet deadlines to preserve rights and avoid the case proceeding to enforcement.
- Respond to notices and legal documents within stated deadlines to avoid losing rights.
- Continue to document payments; non-payment can weaken requests for delay.
- In the event of police enforcement, follow instructions from the police; delays from other authorities may affect this.
Respond within deadlines — late responses can make it harder to obtain a delay.
Documentation that strengthens your case
- Pay slips, bank statements and receipts showing payment ability or payment problems.
- Copies of written communication with the landlord, notices and any payment plans.
- Documentation of medical conditions or needs for accommodation, such as a medical certificate.
- Any decisions or correspondence from NAV, social services or other support agencies.
Detailed documentation improves your chances of obtaining a delay.
Key takeaways
- An application for delay must be well justified and documented.
- Observe deadlines for appeals and responses from courts or HTU.
- Seek advice early from the Tenancy Disputes Tribunal or legal help for concrete steps.
FAQ
- Can I get a delay if I am ill?
- Yes, illness can be grounds for forbearance if documented by a medical certificate and it shows that vacating is particularly difficult during the period.
- Does a delay stop rental claims?
- No, a delay postpones enforcement, but earlier rent claims may still apply and should be documented and discussed.
- Where do I seek help to get a delay?
- Start by contacting the landlord in writing, and simultaneously contact the Tenancy Disputes Tribunal or the court for guidance and possible applications for a temporary injunction.
How to
- Send a written request to the landlord and document the time and content.
- Collect documentation: medical certificate, proof of payments and correspondence.
- Submit required forms or complaints to the correct authority, such as HTU or the court.
- Follow up by phone or email, and request written confirmation of how your request is handled.
