Who Pays When a Student Rents in Norway
As a tenant in Norway, situations may arise where a student finds or takes over student housing, raising questions about who pays rent, the deposit or repairs. This article explains the rules that typically apply between tenant and landlord, what responsibilities follow from the rental agreement, and how you can document obligations. You will get practical advice on paying initial rent, taking over from a previous tenant, and how to handle disagreements or damages. The goal is to provide clear, simple steps for students and other tenants in Norway so that financial and practical matters are handled safely and within the law.
What applies when a student takes over a flat?
When a student takes over a flat, the rental agreement and the Tenancy Act normally govern the rights and obligations.[1] As a new tenant, you should clarify the takeover date, who pays rent from which day, and whether the deposit has already been paid or needs to be paid again.
Responsibility for rent and deposit
Rent must be paid by the party named in the contract from the agreed takeover date unless otherwise agreed in writing. The deposit is agreed in the contract and handled separately; check how it is to be stored and returned.
Checklist at takeover
- Ensure it is clear who pays the deposit and first months rent.
- Carry out a joint inspection and note conditions and defects.
- Take dated photos and keep documentation of any damages.
- Obtain written confirmation of any changes in payment or responsibility.
What to do about damages or disagreement
Start with dialogue with the landlord or previous tenant. If you cannot agree, the Tenancy Disputes Committee (HTU) can assist with mediation or decisions for many disputes.[2] For more serious cases, legal action may be appropriate; the courts handle disputes when other options are insufficient.[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I, as a new student, have to pay the previous tenants debt?
- Usually the person named in the rental agreement is responsible for rent from takeover, unless otherwise agreed in writing between the parties.
- Who holds the deposit?
- The deposit should be handled according to the rental agreement and the law, often kept by the landlord or in a blocked account by agreement.
- What should I do in a dispute about payment or damages?
- Begin with dialogue, document the situation, and contact the Tenancy Disputes Committee or the courts if the matter is not resolved.
How to
- Read the rental agreement carefully and note who is a contracting party and the takeover date.
- Clarify in writing who pays the deposit and the first months rent before takeover.
- Document the condition of the property with dated photos and keep receipts for any expenses.
- Contact HTU for mediation or the courts if formal dispute resolution is required.[2]
