Do cleaning companies have to be approved in Norway?
The approval rule, how to check the register and what it means for you.
Short answer
Yes, every business offering cleaning services in Norway must be approved by the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet), and buying cleaning from unapproved firms is illegal. The ban also applies to private persons, so check the company's name or organisation number in the cleaning register (Renholdsregisteret) before you hire a cleaner.
Why
- Arbeidstilsynet says the approval requirement also applies to self-employed people, whether or not the business has employees.
- All employees who do cleaning work must have an HMS card (ID card) from Arbeidstilsynet, and the requirement also covers self-employed cleaners without employees.
- Unlike businesses that buy cleaning, private persons have no duty to check that the cleaner has lawful pay and working conditions.
Details
You can search the register by name or organisation number, or find cleaning companies on a map. Firms marked 'application under processing' or 'HMS card order under processing' may be used, but Arbeidstilsynet advises against firms that are not in the register or are marked 'not approved'. If your cleaner is not approved, you must demand that they apply, and end the contract if they are not approved.
Tip
Ask to see the cleaner's HMS card and check that the company name on it matches the entry in the register.
What may differ
Businesses whose own cleaners only clean the business's own premises do not need to apply for approval.
People also ask
- How do I check if a cleaning company is approved in Norway?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Arbeidstilsynet before you hire a cleaner.
Related questions
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In Oslo you can have a rug cleaned at home by Oslo Møbel og Tepperens, from NOK 990, or take it to a Vinderen Rens dry cleaner.
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The property owner pays for chimney sweeping through a municipal fee for sweeping and inspection, and a landlord cannot charge a tenant for it on top of rent.
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