Registration rules for tenants in Norway
As a tenant in Norway you should know about registration obligations and how to change your address in the population register when you move. This affects the mail you receive, tax returns, housing benefits and contact with public services. In this guide we explain which deadlines apply, what documentation is required, and how to safely notify the population register and the municipality. We also cover temporary addresses, joint tenancies and moving out. The information helps you avoid misunderstandings with the landlord, ensure correct information to public agencies and know where to get help if something goes wrong. Practical steps and tips follow below. We also show how to document address for deposits and what rights you have as a tenant.
What to do when you move
When you move as a tenant, there are several concrete steps you usually need to follow to ensure correct population register status and good communication with the landlord and authorities.
- Notify your new address in the population register within 8 days after moving [3]
- Give written notice to the landlord and note the date of receipt
- Update electricity, internet and subscriptions to the correct name and address
- Take photos or make copies of the lease and handover protocol for documentation
Deadlines and documentation
The rules on deadlines and obligations vary depending on the situation. As a general rule, you should report address changes quickly to avoid losing rights or misdirected mail. If you are in a dispute about the contract, termination or deposit, the Tenancy Act gives you rights and obligations that affect deadlines and documentation requirements [1].
Disputes with the landlord
If you and the landlord disagree about moving out, the deposit or compensation, it is recommended to collect all written communication and documentation. Many disputes can be resolved through the Tenancy Disputes Board (HTU) or the conciliation board, and HTU provides guidance for tenants on how to proceed [2].
Practical tips for documentation
Note dates for key handover, take photos at move-in and move-out and keep receipts for maintenance and payments. Documentation makes it easier to prove circumstances in disputes or claims.
Frequently asked questions
- How quickly must I report an address change?
- You should report an address change as soon as possible, normally within 8 days after moving, to ensure the correct population register address and mail delivery [3].
- Do I have to inform the landlord when I change address?
- Yes. Inform the landlord in writing of the new address and any changes to the tenancy so that contact information is updated.
- What do I do if the landlord does not return the deposit?
- Collect documentation and consider contacting HTU or the conciliation board for dispute resolution. HTU can advise on complaints and claims [2].
How to
- Notify address: Report your new address to the population register through the correct public channel within the deadline [3]
- Inform landlord: Give written notice to the landlord and keep a copy of the notice
- Update services: Update subscriptions and arrange transfer of services with providers
- Keep records: File all documentation so you can show evidence if needed
