Deposit deductions in Norway for tenants
As a tenant in Norway it is important to understand what expenses can be deducted from the security deposit when moving out. Many questions concern damage versus normal wear, the documentation the landlord must show, and deadlines for repayment or complaint. This article explains the types of costs that typically can be covered by the deposit, which documents you should keep as a tenant (for example photos, receipts and the move-out report), and how to proceed if you believe a deduction is unfair. We also show which public bodies can help in disputes and give concrete steps to prepare a complaint in line with the Norwegian Tenancy Act.
What can be deducted from the deposit?
In general, a landlord can claim compensation for financial loss caused by the tenant's breach beyond normal wear. Common examples are unpaid rent, damage that must be repaired, or costs for lost keys. The landlord must be able to document the claim and the amount clearly.
- Unpaid rent (rent): claims for unpaid periods or charges the tenant is contractually responsible for.
- Damage requiring repair (repair): damage beyond normal wear that needs fixing.
- Cleaning and washing (fee): when standard cleaning has not been performed and this is documented.
- Lost or damaged keys (keys): cost for replacing locks or keys.
- Move-related costs (move-out): if the rental agreement specifies responsibility for move-out cleaning.
Documentation tenants should keep
Good documentation makes it easier to challenge unreasonable deductions. As a tenant you should collect:
- Photos and videos (evidence) from move-in and move-out showing the property condition.
- Receipts for cleaning or repairs you paid yourself (receipt).
- Move-out report and any e-mails or SMS showing agreements about condition or work (form).
How disputes are handled
Many deposit disputes can be attempted resolved directly between the parties. If you cannot agree, you can file a complaint with the Tenancy Tribunal (HTU) or use the courts. The relevant law is the Tenancy Act, which regulates rights and duties in rental relationships.[1] For practical help and complaint procedures, HTU can provide guidance.[2] For larger claims or court proceedings, the courts are the instance for legal decisions.[3]
FAQ
- Can the landlord deduct for normal wear?
- No. Normal wear from ordinary use should not be charged to the tenant.
- How long does the landlord have to return the deposit?
- The landlord should return the deposit within a reasonable time after moving out. If there is disagreement about the amount, the case can be brought to HTU or the courts.
- What do I do if I think a deduction is unfair?
- Gather all documentation, contact the landlord in writing and consider filing a complaint with HTU or contacting the conciliation board/district court if necessary.
How to
- Document the damage: take photos and note time and circumstances (evidence).
- Collect receipts and communication: obtain receipts for repairs and keep e-mails or SMS between you and the landlord (form).
- Contact the landlord in writing: request a specified overview of any deductions and repayment deadlines.
- File a complaint with HTU or go to court: if you cannot agree, submit the case to HTU or consider conciliation/court for dispute resolution.
Key takeaways
- The landlord must document and specify all deductions from the deposit.
- As a tenant you should always document property condition at move-in and move-out.
- HTU and the courts can assist when parties do not agree.
