CO and Ventilation: Tenant Safety in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, it is important to take CO risk and proper ventilation seriously. Carbon monoxide often comes from faulty heating appliances, incorrect gas devices or blocked chimneys and is odorless and life-threatening. Good ventilation habits, regular maintenance and quick action in case of suspicion protect you, your family and your home. This guide explains in practical terms which duties landlords and tenants have, how to recognize symptoms, which immediate measures help and how you can enforce your rights. The language remains deliberately simple so that non-legal readers in Austria find clear steps — including when to involve authorities or the courts. We also show which evidence is useful, which deadlines must be observed and where to find official help.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion. Even low concentrations can cause headaches, nausea or dizziness; high concentrations are life-threatening. Typical sources in homes are faulty gas boilers, fireplaces, caravan heaters or poorly maintained stoves.
Risks and Symptoms
Typical symptoms of CO exposure are headaches, nausea, dizziness and disorientation up to loss of consciousness. If several people in a household are affected, you should act immediately and go to fresh air.
- Headaches or dizziness, especially after turning on heating.
- Nausea or disorientation without other obvious cause.
- Several people in the household with similar complaints.
Rights and Duties
In Austria, landlords are responsible for the safety of the rental unit and must keep appliances and chimneys in a safe condition. Tenants must report defects immediately so the landlord can remedy them[1]. Document your reports in writing and keep evidence such as photos and emails.
If the landlord does not respond
If there is no response, tenants can set deadlines and, if necessary, arrange the required measures themselves or notify authorities in case of danger. For legal steps and formal terminations, official forms and involving the courts are possible[2].
Prevention and Practical Steps
Prevention reduces risk: regular maintenance of heating systems, safe use of cooking and heating appliances, smoke and CO detectors and proper ventilation especially after cooking or heating.
- Have heating systems and chimneys serviced regularly.
- Install certified CO detectors in sleeping and living areas.
- Ventilate regularly and avoid prolonged use of open flames in closed rooms.
FAQ
- What should I do if I suspect CO?
- Leave the apartment immediately, move to fresh air, call emergency services and inform all household members.
- Who pays for measurements or repairs?
- Generally, the landlord is responsible for safety and necessary repairs; tenants should report defects promptly and provide proof if the landlord does not respond.[1]
- Can I reduce rent if there's a CO hazard?
- Rent reduction is possible if the apartment is defective and the landlord does not remedy the issue; legal steps should be well documented and possibly supported by legal advice.
How-To
- Leave the apartment immediately and ensure everyone goes to fresh air.
- Call emergency services for acute symptoms or if several people are affected.
- Inform the landlord in writing about the incident and demand a safe inspection and repair.
- Collect evidence: photos, reports, medical notes and witnesses to support your claims.
