Emergency arrears support for tenants in Norway
As a tenant in Norway you may face acute payment problems that lead to arrears and risk of eviction. This article explains how to apply for emergency support, appeal or contest decisions from a landlord or authorities, which deadlines apply, and which documents strengthen your case. We describe practical steps to contact municipal social services, apply for temporary financial help, and which requirements follow from the Tenancy Act[1]. The goal is to give clear advice you can use quickly, including how to gather evidence, who to contact for guidance, and when it may be necessary to appeal to the Tenancy Disputes Board[2] or proceed in the court system[3].
What is emergency support and when does it apply?
Emergency support often means temporary financial assistance from the municipality or other schemes that can prevent eviction. Support can cover rent, deposit or necessary living costs for short periods. Rights and obligations follow from the Tenancy Act, and decisions can be appealed by the tenant.
First steps you should take
Act quickly: lack of response or delay often makes the situation harder. Start by mapping your finances, collecting documents and contacting multiple agencies for advice.
- Check deadlines (deadline) for appeals or payments as soon as you receive a notice.
- Gather documentation: receipts, bank statements, payslips and correspondence.
- Contact the municipality for temporary financial support and debt counseling.
- Explore whether you can apply for emergency aid or loans to cover rent for a short period.
How to appeal or contest a decision
If a landlord or public authority makes a decision you believe is wrong, you can file a written appeal. Follow the notice, send complete documentation and explain why the decision should be changed. If the appeal fails, the matter can often be brought before the Tenancy Disputes Board[2] or further to the courts.
- Write a formal appeal (notice/form) explaining the facts and attach evidence.
- Attach documentation: proof of payment, bank statements and correspondence.
- Consider bringing the case to the Tenancy Disputes Board for faster resolution.
If you receive an eviction notice
An eviction notice must be taken seriously. Check whether you can document payment, request a postponement or apply for financial help immediately. Also contact legal aid if the situation escalates.
- Respond within the stated deadline and follow the instructions in the notice.
- Pay or document that you have attempted to pay, if possible.
- If necessary, seek a postponement or bring the matter before the courts for review.
Documentation that strengthens your case
Good documentation makes it easier to obtain support or win an appeal. This includes written communication with the landlord, the lease agreement, proof of payments and any notices. Make copies and organize information chronologically.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I apply for emergency support for arrears?
- Contact the municipality for financial assistance, document income and expenses, and consider debt counseling for further measures.
- Where do I appeal if a landlord starts eviction proceedings?
- You can appeal in writing to the landlord and then to the Tenancy Disputes Board[2] or the courts if necessary.
- What deadlines apply to respond to a notice?
- Deadlines are stated in the notice; it is important to respond within the stated time to avoid losing rights.
How to (step-by-step)
- Check the notice deadline (deadline) and note key dates.
- Collect all relevant documents and receipts.
- Write a brief, factual appeal with facts and attachments.
- Contact the municipality or legal aid for advice and possible financial support.
