Security Deposits and Damage for Tenants in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, it is important to know which documents protect you when it comes to damage and the security deposit. This guide explains clearly what evidence you should collect before, during and after the tenancy — for example written move-in and move-out reports, dated photos, receipts for repairs, and correspondence with the landlord. You will also get practical advice about deposit accounts, deadlines for claims and how to register disagreements with the Tenancy Tribunal or the courts. The aim is to give you confident steps to secure repayment and reduce disputes, so you can document damage accurately, meet deadlines and know when to seek help from official channels in Norway.
Which documents should you collect?
- Written move-in and move-out report.
- Dated photos of damage and wear.
- Receipts for repairs or professional cleaning.
- Email, SMS or other correspondence with the landlord.
- Bank statement showing payment to the deposit account.
Detailed documentation strengthens your claim.
Deposit, account and deadlines
A security deposit should normally be placed in a separate deposit account or agreed in writing; this is regulated by the Tenancy Act.[1] Check the lease to see where the deposit is registered and note relevant deadlines for complaints or claims.
Respond to written inquiries within deadlines to avoid legal disputes.
What to do when moving out?
When moving out you should carry out a joint inspection, take fresh photos and collect all receipts before signing anything.
- Carry out a joint move-in and move-out inspection with the landlord.
- Take dated photos of all relevant damage.
- Keep receipts for any cleaning or repair costs.
- Send a written claim for the return of the deposit and set a deadline.
Keep all receipts and photos organised and dated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a landlord charge for normal wear and tear?
- No, normal wear and tear is generally not a basis for deductions from the deposit.
- How long does the landlord have to return the deposit?
- There is no fixed standard deadline in all cases; therefore set a specific deadline in your written claim and follow the Tenancy Act.[1]
- What if I and the landlord cannot agree?
- You can complain to the Tenancy Tribunal or take the case to the conciliation board/court for a formal decision.[2]
How to do it
- Collect all documents, photos and receipts as evidence.
- Take clear before-and-after photos with dates.
- Send a written claim to the landlord with a summary and attachments.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repayment, for example 14 days.
- Contact the Tenancy Tribunal for guidance if the disagreement persists.[2]
- Consider the conciliation board or the court if the case is not resolved.
Key takeaways
- Document everything with photos and receipts.
- Always send a written claim before legal action.
- Seek help from the Tenancy Tribunal or the courts if needed.
Help and resources
- Lovdata - Tenancy Act (Husleieloven)
- Husleietvistutvalget (HTU)
- The Courts - conciliation board and district court
