Guide to Renting Apartments for Business Professionals in Norway

Finding the right corporate apartment in Norway can be far more challenging than expected, particularly for foreign businesses. While Norway offers high-quality living options, many landlords are skeptical of renting to foreign companies.

Combined with high competition in cities like Oslo and Bergen, and the complexities of securing apartments with essential amenities, the process can quickly become overwhelming.

This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know about renting apartments for business purposes in Norway — from navigating rental prices to understanding key challenges like utilities, parking, and lease terms. By the end, you'll know exactly how to secure the perfect living space for your team and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Understanding the Norwegian Rental Market

High Demand in Major Cities



Norway's largest cities experience constant housing demand due to thriving industries like construction, IT, and energy. For foreign businesses, this process can feel even more competitive:

• Landlords often prioritize tenants with local references.
• High-quality apartments, especially with parking, are rented out quickly.

Average Rental Prices for 2-Bedroom Apartments

Rental prices reflect the strong demand and high living standards in Norway.

For fully furnished 2-bedroom apartments :

Oslo : For a centrally located apartment, expect to pay between NOK 20,000–30,000/month (approximately €1,750–€2,600/month ). Apartments with parking are extremely limited, particularly in neighborhoods like Frogner and Majorstuen.

Bergen : In business districts, rents for 2-bedroom apartments range from NOK 18,000–25,000/month (approximately €1,575–€2,150/month ). Central parking spaces are scarce.

Stavanger : As a hub for oil and energy, 2-bedroom apartments cost around NOK 17,000–24,000/month (approximately €1,490–€2,060/month ).

Trondheim : With growing tech and industrial sectors, rents for 2-bedroom apartments range from NOK 16,000–22,000/month (approximately €1,400–€1,890/month ).

In smaller towns, prices may be slightly lower, but competition remains high during major projects.

Source: Statistisk Sentralbyrå Leiemarkedsundersøkelsen

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Apartment

Location

When choosing a location, consider these three factors:

1. Proximity to Work: Short commutes mean more productive time for your team.

2. Access to Public Transport: Reliable transport hubs near apartments are critical.

3. Neighborhood Quality: Prioritize central, secure neighborhoods like Frogner in Oslo or Fana in Bergen.

Essential Amenities

While many apartments are fully furnished, key amenities can still be challenging to secure:

High-Speed Internet: Essential for remote work and communication.

Parking: Limited availability in larger cities like Oslo and Bergen. Spaces are rare and often come at an extra cost.

Utilities: Due to the electricity crisis in Norway, landlords rarely include electricity costs in the rent.

This is particularly critical in winter when energy prices can spike dramatically.

At its peak, electricity can cost NOK 13.5 per kilowatt-hour (approximately €1.20 per kilowatt-hour) . For a standard 2-bedroom apartment, this can result in significant additional monthly expenses.

3. The Challenges of Renting in Norway

Renting as a foreign business tenant involves unique obstacles:

Landlord Skepticism

Many landlords are reluctant to rent to foreign companies due to concerns over reliability, payment delays, or unfamiliarity with the tenant. Local references are rarely available, creating additional hurdles.

Limited Supply of Quality Apartments

Central apartments with modern amenities are often rented within days. Parking is extremely limited and can significantly increase costs.

High Utility Costs

The electricity crisis in Norway has made utility expenses unpredictable. Prices can peak at NOK 13.5 (€1.20) per kilowatt-hour , particularly during winter. Landlords often exclude electricity from rental agreements to avoid responsibility for fluctuating costs. Solution : Partner with an experienced housing provider like HomeShare to ensure transparency, minimize delays, and access properties that meet your needs.

4. The Rental Process: Step-by-Step

5. Legal Rights and Obligations for Tenants

-> Your Rights

Fair Rent : Rent must align with market rates.

Privacy : Landlords must provide proper notice before entering the property.

Maintenance : Landlords handle significant repairs and ensure a habitable environment.

-> Your Obligations

• Pay rent on time
• Manage electricity and heating costs unless otherwise specified
• Notify landlords of maintenance issues promptly.

6. Why Corporate Housing Providers Simplify the Process

Given the complexities of Norway's rental market, partnering with a corporate housing provider simplifies the experience and saves valuable time. Here are the benifits:

• Move-In Ready Apartments:

Fully furnished, modern apartments with all essential amenities.

• Lease Management:

Expert negotiation of lease terms and handling of landlord communication.

• Time and Cost Savings:

Providers handle viewings, paperwork, and logistics.

7. Checklist:

What to Lookfor in a Business Apartment

Location

Central, with good transport links and amenities

Utilites

Clarify cost for electricity, heating and water

Parking

Confirmed availability and extra fees

Furnished Apartments

Fully equipped for immidate

move-ins

Lease terms

Flexible durations to match your project timelines

Why Choose Homeshare for Your Corporate Housing Needs?

At Homeshare , we simplify corporate housing for businesses working on short- or long-term projects in Norway.

Our expertise:

Get in touch!

Save time and secure the perfect corporate apartments in Norway effortlessly. Visit our business page for tailored housing solutions, or send us an inquiry today, and we'll provide a customized offer within 24 hours!