Who pays for reasonable subletting in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, situations involving subletting can raise questions about who should pay extra rent, costs for damage or repairs, and what rights you have if a dispute arises. This guide explains how responsibility is typically divided between the main tenant, subtenant and landlord, what the law says, and which steps you can take to document claims, demand reimbursement or file a complaint with the Tenancy Disputes Board. We use plain language and practical advice so you can understand which costs you may be held responsible for, which you can reclaim, and how to best protect your rights in a Norwegian tenancy.
What does "reasonable subletting" mean?
Reasonable subletting means that the subletting arrangement does not impose on the landlord or main tenant unreasonable costs or risks beyond what is normal for housing rental. In practice, amounts for rent, variable costs and responsibility for damage are assessed. In disputes, the Tenancy Act and decisions from the Tenancy Disputes Board often show how reasonableness should be interpreted.[1]
Good documentation increases the chance of success in a dispute.
Who covers which costs?
The allocation of responsibility can vary depending on the agreement between the parties and the cause of the cost. Common principles are:
- Rent from the subtenant goes to the person entitled to the rent (rent).
- The deposit secures compensation for damage or missed payments (deposit).
- Damage caused by the subtenant is normally covered by the subtenant or via the deposit (repair).
- Notices and written agreements should always be documented (notice).
Documentation and reimbursement claims
To claim payment or reimbursement you must document the cost: receipts, photos, written communication and any condition reports. Send a clear written request first and state the deadline for payment. If you cannot agree, the case can be brought before the Tenancy Disputes Board or the courts.[2]
Always keep receipts, photos and communication for at least one year after the subletting period.
What to do in case of disagreement or non-payment?
The following steps are common in disputes:
- Send a formal written payment request with a deadline (notice).
- Obtain evidence such as photos and receipts (evidence).
- Consider filing a complaint with the Tenancy Disputes Board or bringing the case to the conciliation board/court (court).
Respond to demands and deadlines to avoid losing rights in a case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord demand extra rent when the tenant sublets?
- If subletting is permitted in the lease, the landlord generally cannot demand extra rent without agreement. Any agreements must be written and reasonable.
- Who pays for damage after a subtenant?
- The person who caused the damage is responsible. The main tenant may be held liable to the landlord if the subtenant does not pay.
- Where do I file a complaint in case of dispute about subletting?
- Most disputes can be brought to the Tenancy Disputes Board; more serious cases may go to the conciliation board or the district court.[3]
How to
- Take photos and collect receipts as documentation (evidence).
- Send a written demand to the person you believe should pay, with a deadline (notice).
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Board for guidance if you cannot agree (contact).
- If necessary, prepare the case for the conciliation board or district court (court).
Key points to remember
- Always have a written agreement when subletting to avoid uncertainties (tip).
- Documentation is crucial if you need to complain or go to court (evidence).
Help and support
- Contact the Tenancy Disputes Board (HTU) for guidance and complaint options (contact): www.htu.no
- See the Tenancy Act and legal texts on Lovdata for legal basis (contact): www.lovdata.no
- Information on legal processes and dispute resolution at the Courts (contact): www.domstol.no
