Tenant rights for landlord maintenance in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, it can be unclear who is responsible for maintenance and repairs in the home. This text explains the obligations landlords typically have under the Tenancy Act[1], what rights you as a tenant have, how to document damage, and what steps you can take if the landlord does not fix faults. We cover common situations like lack of heating, water leaks or mold, and give practical advice on notification, deadlines and complaint options to the Tenancy Disputes Board[2] or the courts[3]. The guide also describes what is usually covered by the rent and how you can demand a price reduction or repairs. It gives clear steps for communicating with the landlord and tips on when to contact HTU or the courts.
What does the landlord's maintenance obligation cover?
The landlord usually has the responsibility to keep the property in a proper condition. This often includes technical systems, load-bearing structures and adequate heating and water supply. Normal wear and tear may, however, be the tenant's responsibility depending on the agreement.
- Heating and hot water — the landlord must ensure heating and hot water work.
- Water and drainage installations — leaks and clogged pipes should be fixed by the landlord.
- Structural damage and mold — structural faults and moisture must be dealt with by the landlord.
In most cases, tenants are entitled to basic standards of housing.
What should you do as a tenant
Follow these practical steps to protect your rights and ensure a prompt fix.
- Document the damage with photos, date and description immediately after discovery.
- Notify the landlord in writing and ask for written confirmation of receipt.
- Set a reasonable deadline for repair in the notice and state the expected remedy.
- For urgent dangers (electrical faults, major leaks) take necessary immediate measures and inform the landlord immediately.
Responding to notices and keeping deadlines in writing helps prove the communication.
When to contact HTU or the courts
If the landlord does not meet deadlines or denies responsibility, you may consider a formal complaint or claim for price reduction or repair. HTU handles many tenancy disputes, while more serious disputes may go to the courts.
- Consider HTU for common tenancy issues like non-repair or disagreement about price reduction.
- Seek legal or practical advice before taking legal steps if the case is complex.
- Be aware of deadlines for complaints and claims; act in time to avoid procedural bars.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for repairs due to normal wear?
- Usually the landlord pays for major maintenance and technical faults, while minor wear may be the tenant's responsibility under the agreement.
- What do I do if the landlord does not respond to my notice?
- Send a follow-up in writing, set a clear deadline for repair, and consider contacting HTU or seeking legal help if the deadline passes.
- Can I withhold rent if the landlord does not repair?
- Withholding rent should be done with caution and typically after advice from HTU or legal guidance, as incorrect handling can lead to disputes.
How to
- Take photos and keep a log with dates and times of all damages.
- Send a written notice to the landlord with a request for repair and a proposed deadline.
- Wait for the deadline to expire; follow up in writing if nothing happens.
- If the landlord still does not act, consider lodging a complaint with HTU or formally requesting repair/price reduction.
Key takeaways
- Documentation is the most important evidence in a tenancy dispute.
- Written communication protects your rights if a conflict arises.
- HTU is often the right first step for common tenancy disputes.
