Renting an apartment in Norway: Finn.no, deposits and your rights

Where to look

Most newcomers rent first. The largest listings site is finn.no; letting agents are another option. Always keep communication with the landlord in writing (IMDi / Ny i Norge). For typical prices see cost of living in Oslo.

Deposit rules (Husleieloven § 3-5)

• The deposit can be at most six months' rent.
• It must go into a separate deposit account (depositumskonto) in the tenant's name at a bank, with normal interest terms. Interest belongs to the tenant (student housing can agree otherwise).
• The landlord pays the fee for opening the account.
• The landlord cannot demand the deposit in cash or into their own account. If you paid that way, you can demand the money back at any time (Husleietvistutvalget).
• The deposit must be agreed when the lease is signed – it cannot be added afterwards (Forbrukerrådet).
• You are not obliged to open a deposit account abroad.

Scam warning sign: anyone asking you to pay a "deposit" to a personal account or in cash before viewing is breaking these rules.

Disagreements

The Rent Disputes Tribunal (Husleietvistutvalget, htu.no) and the Consumer Council (Forbrukerrådet) handle rental disagreements and publish guidance.

Next steps: bank account (you'll need one for the deposit account) · electricity · broadband.