Move-in report with photos: tenant in Norway
What is a move-in report?
A move-in report is a written and photo-documented record that describes the condition of the rental when you take possession. As a tenant in Norway, the report protects you against unjustified claims about damage when moving out and serves as useful evidence if disagreements arise between you and the landlord.
What should the report include?
- Detailed descriptions of rooms, fixtures and visible damage.
- Multiple photos of each damage: overview and close-ups.
- Date and time of handover.
- Signature of both tenant and landlord, or written confirmation by email.
- Notes about the deposit, advance payments and any agreed deductions.
- Record key access and which keys are handed over.
How to take good photos
Use your phone camera in landscape mode for room overviews and take several close-ups of damages. Make sure photos show context (furniture around the damage) and that the date is saved in the file metadata when possible.
Submitting and storing the report
After handover you should give a copy to the landlord and keep at least one personal copy. Preferably send the documentation by email so you have a timestamp and easy access if you need to file a complaint or dispute. If the landlord refuses to sign, note this in the report and send the documentation anyway.
When the report is not enough: complaints and dispute resolution
If you cannot agree with the landlord about responsibility for damage, you can seek guidance and possibly file a complaint through the Rent Disputes Tribunal (HTU) or the ordinary courts depending on the case. It is also helpful to know your rights in the Tenancy Act to assess claims for repairs or refund of deposit.[1] In disputes, HTU can be a practical first option for many tenants.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I always need a written report?
- It is strongly recommended to have a written and signed report with photos to avoid interpretation issues at move-out.
- What if the landlord will not sign?
- Submit the report anyway, send the documentation by email and keep your own copies. Note that the landlord refused to sign in the report.
- Can I use the report in a dispute about the deposit?
- Yes. A detailed report with photos is often central evidence when assessing claims against the deposit.
How to
- Systematically inspect each room and note condition, marks and defects.
- Take overview photos and close-ups of all damage or wear.
- Write a short caption for each photo explaining what it shows.
- Note the date and either get the report signed or email it to the landlord the same day.
- Archive all receipts and communication that may affect deposit or repair claims.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] HTU - Rent Disputes Tribunal
- [2] Lovdata - Tenancy Act
- [3] Domstol.no - Courts and dispute resolution
