My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?

Direct answer

First a written demand to the landlord with a deadline (14 days is normal) and your bank details — most deposits come back at this stage. If nothing happens, Husleietvistutvalget (HTU) (22 92 70 00) is the body that deals with rent and deposit disputes in Norway. For advice on what you can claim and what the landlord may deduct, Leieboerforeningen (leieboerforeningen.no). The last step is a small-claims or rent court, where you can usually go without a lawyer.

In Norway the deposit must sit on a separate deposit account in the tenant's name, max six months' rent; the bank pays it out after five weeks unless the landlord files a claim.

Call firstHusleietvistutvalget (HTU)

Report toLeieboerforeningen

If that failsForliksrådet

🗣️ What to say

"My tenancy at [address] ended on [date]. The deposit of €… has not been returned and I have received no itemised deductions. I request the full amount within 14 days to [IBAN]. Otherwise I will take it to Husleietvistutvalget (HTU)."

🪜 Step by step

Write, don't callA dated letter or e-mail with the amount, the end date, your bank details and a 14-day deadline. Keep proof of sending.
Collect evidenceThe signed contract, the move-in and move-out inspection reports, photos with dates, and the proof you paid the deposit.
Ask Leieboerforeningen what appliesWhich deductions are allowed (unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear) and what is not (repainting, normal wear, cleaning that was not agreed).
File with Husleietvistutvalget (HTU)The rent dispute body or deposit scheme handles this without a lawyer and usually within weeks.
Court as last resortSmall-claims procedures exist for exactly this amount range; the landlord usually pays the costs if you win.

📇 All contacts

Husleietvistutvalget (HTU)Decides tenancy disputes without a lawyer, low feeWhen the claim is unpaid after the deadline📞 22 92 70 00 🔗 www.htu.no

LeieboerforeningenAdvice and support for membersBefore you write, on deductions and deadlines🔗 www.leieboerforeningen.no

ForliksrådetLow-cost first instance for money claimsOutside HTU's area or when the decision is disputed🔗 www.politiet.no/tjenester/forliksradet

❓ Frequently asked

How long may the landlord take?

It varies by country, but "a reasonable time" after a final inspection is usually a few weeks; Leieboerforeningen knows the exact rule for Norway.

Can the landlord keep it for repainting?

Not for normal wear and tear. Damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent or bills, and cleaning you agreed to do can be deducted — itemised, with receipts.

I have no written contract

You still have a tenancy and still get the deposit back. Bank transfers, messages and witnesses prove the agreement.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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🔑 My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?