Tenant Rights: Damage and Deposit in Norway

As a tenant in Norway, questions about damage and the security deposit can be stressful. This article explains your rights and obligations regarding damage to the rental, what a landlord may claim compensation for, and how the deposit should be handled after moving out. We review documentation you should collect, deadlines for complaints and appeal options with the Tenancy Disputes Board or the courts. The goal is to give clear, practical steps you can follow to protect your money and avoid unnecessary disputes. The language is simple and to the point, with examples of how damage is classified, what counts as normal wear and tear, and when you can demand your deposit back. You will also get a checklist for written documentation and advice on communicating with the landlord.

What does deposit and damage cover?

A landlord may claim compensation from the deposit for damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear. The rules on this are found in the Husleieloven^[1]. Common examples of claims are damage to floors, holes in walls or deficiencies after insufficient move-out cleaning.

• Damage beyond normal wear and tear, such as destruction to fixtures or structure.
• Unpaid rent claims or other financial obligations the tenant has under the contract.
• Costs for necessary repairs or required cleaning upon moving out.

How to document damage and claim the deposit back

Good documentation makes it easier to prove what was damage versus normal wear. Take photos and create a written inventory at move-in and move-out, and keep all receipts for repairs or professional cleaning.

• Take clear photographs and timestamp them if possible to show condition at move-out.
• Write a formal written claim to the landlord and request repayment or a specified deduction.
• Be mindful of deadlines to complain or assert claims.

What to do if you disagree?

If you and the landlord do not agree, you can complain to the Tenancy Disputes Board for many types of tenancy disputes or bring the case to the courts. See information on mediation and processing at the Tenancy Disputes Board^[2]. If the case requires judicial handling, you can explore options for the conciliation board or district court.^[3]

Frequently asked questions

Can the landlord use the deposit for normal wear and tear?

No, normal wear and tear should normally not be deducted from the deposit; the deposit may only cover costs caused by damage or failure to fulfill the tenancy agreement.

How long do I have to claim the deposit back?

There is not one fixed time in all cases, but you should claim the deposit back in writing as soon as possible after moving out and follow up within a reasonable time.

What do I do if the landlord withholds the deposit without good reason?

Document everything, send a written claim and consider filing a complaint with the Tenancy Disputes Board or another dispute resolution forum.

How to

1. Read the rental contract and note which terms apply to the deposit.
2. Document the property condition with photos and a written list both at move-in and move-out.
3. Send a formal written claim to the landlord with documentation and the amount you consider correct.
4. Attempt negotiation or mediation to resolve the matter outside court.
5. If no solution is reached, complain to the Tenancy Disputes Board or consider legal action.

Help and support

• Tenancy Disputes Board - guidance and complaints
• Husleieloven - Lovdata
• The Courts - guidance on legal process

1. [1] Husleieloven - Lovdata
2. [2] Husleietvistutvalget - HTU
3. [3] Domstolene - Domstol.no