Tenant: Maintenance and Repairs in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, it is important to know who is responsible for maintenance and repairs. This article explains rights and obligations, what counts as the landlord's responsibility versus the tenant's, and how you can document damage, report faults and demand repairs. We go through practical steps for notifying, deadlines for repairs, and the solutions available if the landlord does not act — from formal complaints to the Housing Disputes Committee (HTU) or the courts. The language is simple, and the examples are relevant for common tenancy agreements in Norway. Read on for concrete checklists, notice templates and advice that make it easier to get necessary repairs carried out.
What does maintenance cover?
The Tenancy Act (Husleieloven) regulates the main principles for maintenance and who pays for different types of repairs.[1] Generally, the landlord is responsible for technical systems and structural defects that affect the habitability of the dwelling, while the tenant covers damage caused by negligence or that is agreed to be the tenant's responsibility in the contract.
Landlord responsibilities
- Repair faults in plumbing, heating and electrical systems that affect habitability
- Ensure the dwelling meets requirements for heating, water and sanitation
- Carry out major maintenance that is not the tenant's responsibility
Tenant responsibilities
- Notify the landlord in writing about damage and defects as soon as possible
- Perform minor maintenance or cleaning as agreed in the lease
- Avoid damage caused by negligence or misuse
When can the tenant demand repairs?
A tenant can demand repairs when a defect reduces the use of the dwelling. Start with a written notice, give a reasonable deadline for repair, and document everything. If the landlord does not follow up, you can complain to the Housing Disputes Committee (HTU) or seek help through the conciliation board or the courts.[2]
- Set a concrete deadline for repair (usually a few weeks depending on the severity)
- Collect evidence: photos, dates, message logs and receipts
- Communicate in writing so you have documentation in case of dispute
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for repairs to water or heating systems?
- The landlord is usually responsible for technical systems, unless the damage is the tenant's fault. See the Tenancy Act.[1]
- What do I do if the landlord does not repair?
- Send a written notice with documentation and a reasonable deadline. If the landlord does not act, you can complain to the Housing Disputes Committee (HTU) or take the case to the conciliation board/courts.[2]
- Can I withhold rent for defects?
- In some cases rent can be withheld, but this carries risks. Follow the rules in the Tenancy Act and consider seeking advice before withholding payment.[1]
How to proceed
- Gather evidence: take photos, note dates and describe the fault.
- Notify the landlord in writing with a request for repair and set a reasonable deadline.
- Contact local advice services or the Housing Disputes Committee (HTU) if the landlord does not follow up.[2]
- Consider the conciliation board or the courts if disagreement persists.[3]
Key takeaways
- Always document damage and communications with the landlord.
- Send written notices and set clear deadlines for repairs.
- Seek help from HTU or the courts when necessary.
