Who Pays for Damage: Tenant Evidence in Norway
As a tenant in Norway you may face situations where damage occurs in the home and the parties disagree about who must pay. Documentation such as photos, a precise log and credible witnesses can be decisive when presenting a claim or defending yourself against a claim for compensation or deductions from the deposit. This guide explains what types of evidence help a tenant, how to collect and organize documentation, which deadlines apply, and how you can use the evidence in dialogue with the landlord or in disputes in the Tenancy Disputes Board or the courts. The goal is to provide practical advice that makes it easier to protect your rights in rental relationships.
What counts as evidence?
Different types of documentation have different weight. Photos that show damage and scale, a dated log of events, written communication with the landlord and witness statements are common forms of evidence. Always take photos from multiple angles, note date and time, and keep original messages or emails that show communication about the damage.
- Photos and videos with date and context.
- An ongoing written log of events and measures.
- Witness statements with names and contact information.
- Written communication like email, SMS or messages.
- Receipts for repairs or purchases for the home.
- Move-in and move-out reports or inventory lists.
How to collect and organize evidence
Good routines make it easier to use evidence later. Create a folder (digital and/or physical) where you arrange material chronologically, make backups of photos and screenshots of messages, and note who did what and when.
Photographs
Take clear photos with an object to show size (for example a ruler or measuring tape). Take both overview shots and close-ups of damaged areas, and document times and lighting conditions.
Logs and messages
Write a short chronological log with dates and times for incidents, notices and conversations. Always make written communication when possible, and ask the landlord for written confirmations of repair agreements.
What happens if you do not agree?
First try dialogue and written settlement. If the landlord and tenant cannot agree, the case can be brought to the Tenancy Disputes Board for many types of rental disputes[2], or to the courts if the case is suitable for the district court[3]. The legislation regulating claims between landlord and tenant is the Tenancy Act, which describes responsibilities, deadlines and what can be claimed[1].
- Try to resolve the case directly with written documentation and a proposed solution.
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Board for mediation or decision in rental matters.[2]
- If necessary, the case can be brought to the courts or the conciliation board.[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can photos alone prove the landlord must pay?
- Photos are important, but they often need support from logs, receipts or witness statements to prove causation and liability.
- How long should I keep documentation?
- Keep documentation at least until the case is closed and the deposit is returned; in practice, often several years if disagreement may arise.
- What do I do if the landlord does not accept the evidence?
- Gather everything in writing, consider mediation in the Tenancy Disputes Board, and prepare the case with clear documentation before formal complaint or legal action.
How
- Take multiple photos and video of the damage with date and scale.
- Keep a chronological log with dates and times for all incidents.
- Notify the landlord in writing and keep copies of the communication.
- Obtain witnesses, note contact details, and ask them to write brief confirmations.
- Consider contacting the Tenancy Disputes Board or seeking advice before starting legal proceedings.
Help and resources
- [1] Lovdata - Tenancy Act
- [2] Tenancy Disputes Board - Guidance for tenants
- [3] Courts - Information on disputes and legal processes
