Mediation/HTU: who pays for tenants in Norway

As a tenant in Norway you may face questions about who should pay for damage, repairs or costs when a dispute goes to mediation or the Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU). This article explains the types of maintenance and repairs that typically fall on landlords or tenants, how mediation and HTU assess responsibility, and what evidence and documents strengthen your case. You will also get practical steps to prepare a complaint, which deadlines apply, and tips for communicating clearly with your landlord. The goal is that you as a tenant understand your rights and know how to get help in disputes about maintenance and costs.

What do mediation and HTU cover?

Mediation is often the first step to resolve disputes about tenancy without a court case. The Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU) can handle many disputes between tenant and landlord and issue binding decisions in certain cases^[2]. For simpler disputes, the conciliation board or courts may also be relevant. In mediation, parties are encouraged to find a solution together, while HTU makes an assessment based on the tenancy act and the documentation submitted.

Responsibility for maintenance and repairs

Who pays depends on what is agreed in the lease and what the Tenancy Act says about the landlord's duty to keep the property in a proper condition^[1]. Generally, the landlord is responsible for necessary maintenance, while the tenant may be responsible for damage caused by negligence or breach.

When does the landlord pay?

• Serious defects affecting habitability or safety, such as lack of heat or water (repair).
• Structural damage, roof or major plumbing and electrical systems (maintenance).
• Costs related to normal wear and necessary upgrades due to age.

When does the tenant pay?

• Minor repairs and upkeep agreed in the lease or arising from the tenant's use.
• Damage caused by the tenant or their guests that requires repair or compensation.
• Cleaning or refurbishment on move-out if specified in the contract or needed after damage (move-out).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to pay for repairs not caused by me?

Usually the landlord must cover necessary repairs not caused by the tenant. If the damage is due to negligence, the tenant may be liable. Check the Tenancy Act and document the damage.

2. What do I do if the landlord does not repair?

Start with written notice to the landlord describing the defect. If that does not help, you can complain to HTU or request mediation. Observe deadlines and collect evidence such as photos and receipts.

3. Can HTU decide that I must pay?

Yes, HTU can handle disputes about maintenance and costs and render a decision in many cases. If the dispute is not resolved, it can in some situations be brought to the courts.

How to

1. Collect documentation: take photos, keep receipts and keep a log of events (photo, document).
2. Check the lease and the Tenancy Act for who is responsible before you send a claim (file).
3. Send a written notice to the landlord requesting repair; keep a copy of the communication (submit).
4. If the landlord does not respond, request mediation or complain to HTU and prepare documentation for any court or decision (court).
5. Follow up after a decision: pay amounts ordered or claim compensation if you prevailed (pay).

Help and Support / Resources

• Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU) — guidance and contact
• Lovdata — Tenancy Act (key provisions)
• Courts — information on conciliation boards and legal processes
• Police — information on enforcement and securing measures

1. [1] Lovdata — Tenancy Act (1999)
2. [2] Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU)
3. [3] Courts — information and guidance