Lost Key and Deposit - Tenant Rights in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, it can be worrying if a landlord loses a key or deposit funds. This guide explains what can happen, the rights and obligations both you and the landlord have under the Tenancy Act, and concrete steps you can take to secure the deposit or obtain compensation. We discuss practical evidence tips, deadlines, claims against the deposit account, and how to contact the Tenancy Dispute Tribunal or the courts if necessary. The aim is to provide clear, easy-to-understand information so that you as a tenant know how to act quickly and safely in Norway if a key or deposit is mishandled. The text also shows when you should collect documentation, how you can reclaim a deposit from the deposit account, and which deadlines apply.
What happens if the landlord loses a key or deposit?
If the landlord loses a key, it can create both a security risk and a responsibility to cover costs for changing locks or replacing keys. If deposit funds are mishandled or go missing, the tenant has a right to documentation that the deposit was placed in a deposit account and to repayment at move-out. In many cases, the Tenancy Act regulates the duties that apply to deposit and security.[1]
- Contact the landlord in writing (contact) — request explanation, receipts and documentation immediately.
- Document the situation (document) — take photos of doors, locks, written messages and bank receipts.
- Demand repayment from the deposit account (deposit) if there are grounds to do so.
- Contact the police if you suspect theft or other criminal activity (contact/phone).
- Seek help from the Tenancy Dispute Tribunal for dispute resolution (help) if the landlord does not cooperate.[2]
What does the law say?
The Tenancy Act regulates deposits and the landlord's duties related to security and repayment. If the landlord does not place the deposit in an account or loses control of the funds, the tenant may have a claim for repayment and possibly compensation under the law.[1]
Evidence and deadlines
- Take photographs and keep copies of the contract and receipts (document).
- Send a written claim to the landlord within a reasonable time (submit/file).
- Be aware of deadlines for complaints or bringing the case to the Tenancy Dispute Tribunal or court (time/deadline).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord keep the deposit if the key is lost?
- No, the landlord cannot automatically keep the deposit to cover a lost key without documentation and legal basis; costs must be documented and reconciled according to the Tenancy Act and the agreement.
- What should I do if the deposit is missing?
- Request written documentation from the landlord and contact the Tenancy Dispute Tribunal or the courts if necessary; if you suspect a criminal act, also contact the police.[2][3]
- Should I change the lock if the key is lost?
- It may be necessary for security; the cost can be discussed with the landlord and documented if you believe the cost is due to the landlord's negligence.
How to
- Contact the landlord in writing and request explanation and documentation.
- Gather evidence: contract, receipts, photos and messages.
- Formally demand repayment and request an accounting of the deposit account.
- Contact the Tenancy Dispute Tribunal for guidance and mediation if the landlord does not cooperate.[2]
- Consider court action if the tribunal does not provide a solution and the amount or dispute warrants it.[3]
