Tenant complaints and appeals for student housing in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, it can be challenging to know how to complain about student housing or appeal a decision. This guide explains step by step the rights and obligations you have under the Tenancy Act, how to document problems such as lack of heating, damage or errors in the contract, and which deadlines apply. We describe practical steps to notify the landlord, collect evidence, contact the Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU)[2] or the courts, and what to expect during handling of complaints. The text is written for students and other tenants in Norway who need concrete, easy-to-understand advice without legal jargon. You will also find practical templates and tips on what often leads to successful complaints.
What you can complain about
Many complaints concern lack of maintenance, unreasonable deductions from the deposit, incorrect terminations or that the dwelling becomes uninhabitable. Knowing your rights under the Tenancy Act is important before starting a process.[1]
- Repairs and maintenance that are not carried out, such as lack of heating or leaks.
- Disputes about the security deposit, refunds or unreasonable deductions from the deposit.
- Unlawful termination, errors in the contract or unclear terms about fixed-term agreements.
- Safety, fire safety or conditions that make the dwelling unsuitable or dangerous.
In most cases, tenants are entitled to basic housing standards.
How to complain — step by step
Follow these practical steps to increase your chances of a successful complaint or appeal.
- Notify the landlord in writing with date, description and the remedy or compensation you request.
Always send claims and responses in writing and keep copies.
- Take photos, keep a log of incidents, collect receipts and create a clear timeline.
- Observe deadlines for complaints or responses; contact HTU if needed within a reasonable time.
- Apply for mediation or a decision from the Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU) if you cannot reach agreement.
- As a last resort, the case can be brought before the conciliation board or district court if necessary.
Respond to claims and deadlines to avoid losing rights.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I start a complaint about student housing?
- Notify the landlord in writing, gather evidence and set a reasonable deadline for remedy. Consider HTU or the courts if the issue is not resolved.
- How long do I have to complain?
- It depends on the case, but notify the landlord as soon as possible and follow relevant deadlines for claims and legal actions.
- Do I need a lawyer to complain?
- Often you can use HTU without a lawyer; for complex cases or large financial claims, a lawyer may be helpful.
How to file a complaint or appeal
- Draft a clear written complaint and set a realistic deadline for remedy.
- Document all issues with photos, messages and receipts.
- Keep track of relevant deadlines and responses from the landlord.
- Seek mediation or a decision from HTU if the matter is not resolved locally.
- Consider the conciliation board or district court if HTU does not provide the desired outcome or the case needs court handling.
