Renting a property in Oslo

The rental market in Oslo is vibrant and is in constant flux. Before making a decision, make sure you have proof of income (you should have a job) and references from previous landlords (if applicable) so you can start the process smoothly. www.finn.no is the best place to start looking for a rental property.

Another source is Aftenposten newspaper. You can even place an ad in the “wanted” section of the newspaper or news websites, including Finn.no.
The real estate sections of Finn and Aftenposten list available rentals and when each place is being shown.

Normally showings are for an hour at a time, and only twice in a week. After the showings, they are usually taken. If you go see a place and find yourself in a crowd, you can assume that it will go quickly. So if you find a flat you really like, make it known, put your name on the list and be proactive. Call the landlord, or if appropriate, the real estate agency to show your interest.

Landlords like to meet renters in person and it is difficult to rent from abroad unless you go through a service. Agreements between landlords and renters are private and not fixed. Each party is protected by certain regulations. For example, the landlord can only increase the rent once per year and generally it should follow the inflation index. Every three years the landlord can increase it to market rate.

Normally, the landlord is responsible for setting up a joint bank account exclusively for the deposit. It will remain untouched until your lease ends. If damage is caused or rent is owed, it will be taken from the joint account. You will be expected to pay two or three months deposit up front. The lease will usually be for a minimum of one year, though often it is for three years.

When you write a contract, make sure you and the landlord have agreed on the length of notice before the contract can be terminated. Normally, you will be expected to give three months' notice when moving out. Once the lease is up, the landlord decides whether or not to renew it. After the lease period is over you may be able to rent month-to-month.

Once you sign a lease, you will be responsible to pay on a monthly basis into the landlord’s bank account. This will be done via electronic bank transfer, never by check and rarely by cash.

Oslo also has municipal dwellings for rent, but they are few, and people with a low income or social or medical problems are given preference.