Who Pays for Eviction Postponement in Norway — Tenants?
As a tenant you may experience that an eviction is postponed or that the court grants a stay. That does not always mean that someone automatically pays the costs. In Norway, both the Tenancy Act and practice from the Tenancy Disputes Board can affect who covers extra expenses during a stay period, such as rent, fees or costs for storage of belongings. This article explains possible scenarios, tenants' rights, how a landlord can demand payment, and practical steps you can take to document claims and seek guidance from authorities and dispute resolution services.
What does a stay or postponement mean?
A stay or postponement means that the enforcement of an eviction is temporarily stopped or deferred. A stay can be granted by a court or enforcement authority for a short or longer period and may come with conditions such as payment by a certain deadline or other requirements. When a stay is granted, it is important to check who still bears responsibility for ongoing costs.[1]
Who can be liable?
- The landlord may seek coverage for unpaid rent and fees (rent).
- The tenant may still be liable for rent during the stay period if the court or agreement states so (days).
- Third parties, such as storage companies, may demand payment for services used during the postponement (document).
What can the tenant do?
- Respond within deadlines (days) in all court or enforcement processes to retain rights.
- Gather documentation (document): lease agreement, payment receipts and communication with the landlord.
- Contact advisory services such as the Tenancy Disputes Board for advice (contact).[2]
- Consider practical options like temporary storage or securing alternative housing to limit losses (move-out).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Must the tenant pay for the stay period?
- It depends on what the court or enforcement authority decides, and what is stated in the lease. Sometimes the tenant must pay ongoing rent, other times the court may set conditions that exempt payment.
- Can the landlord claim compensation for extra costs during postponement?
- Yes, the landlord can seek coverage for documented costs, but claims must be well documented and comply with law and practice.
- Where can I complain or get guidance?
- Tenants can contact the Tenancy Disputes Board or local courts for guidance and dispute resolution.
How to proceed
- Check the decision and note deadlines (days).
- Collect all documentation (document) such as the lease, payment receipts and correspondence.
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Board or court for guidance (contact).[2]
- Consider temporary payment arrangements to reduce the risk of further claims (rent).
- Plan moving or storage of belongings if the decision requires it (move-out).
- Follow advice from legal guidance to avoid errors that could weaken your rights (safety).
Key takeaways
- Always respond within stated deadlines to protect your rights.
- Documentation increases the chance of success in disputes.
- Seek guidance from HTU or the courts if in doubt.
