Deadlines for Tenant Rights in Austria (MRG)
As a tenant in Austria it is important to know the statutory deadlines in the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG). These deadlines concern terminations, defect notifications, limitation of claims and deadlines for administrative or court actions. Missing deadlines can cause loss of rights or incorrect payments. In this article I explain in plain language which deadlines apply to tenants, how to report defects in time, which deadlines landlords have and when it makes sense to seek legal help. The information refers to Austrian standards and shows practical steps to protect your rights as a tenant, including tips on preserving evidence and formal requirements.
Important Deadlines in the MRG
The Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) regulates deadlines for terminations, defect notifications and claims; know the deadlines to safeguard your rights as a tenant.[1]
Keep all correspondence and receipts well organized.
Termination Periods
- Ordinary termination: Check statutory and contractual deadlines; open-ended leases often have three-month periods.
- Extraordinary termination: For serious reasons termination can be immediate; respond quickly and document the reason.
- If a judicial termination is threatened, inform yourself about the district court procedure.[2]
Reporting Defects and Cure Periods
- Report defects in writing and set a reasonable cure period; specify a concrete date for repair.
- Photograph and log damages as evidence and note witnesses.
- If repairs do not occur you may be entitled to rent reduction or to issue a warning; send proof by email or registered mail.
Limitation of Claims
- Claims for damages and refunds are subject to limitation periods; check deadlines for each case.
- Documentation increases your chances of successfully asserting claims.
Respond to administrative or court letters within deadlines to avoid disadvantages.
FAQ
- What is the deadline for an ordinary termination?
- It depends on the contract and the type of tenancy; three months often apply, check your contract and the MRG.[1]
- How do I correctly report a defect?
- In writing with description, date and a requested cure period; document photos and witnesses and keep copies.
- Where do I get court help or forms?
- Official forms and information are available on JustizOnline and the justice website.[3]
How-To
- First check your lease and the relevant deadlines in the MRG.[1]
- Document defects with photos, dates and witnesses.
- Set a reasonable cure period by registered mail or email.
- If necessary, seek legal advice or submit documents to the court.[2]
Detailed documentation improves prospects in a dispute.
Help and Support
- RIS – Legal Information System of the Republic
- Justiz.gv.at – Information on the Justice System
- JustizOnline – eForms and Services
