Deadlines for Tenants: Rent & Utilities in Austria

As a tenant in Austria it is important to know the deadlines for payment, service charge statements, heating costs and internet contracts. Deadlines determine when rent must be paid, how long landlords may provide statements and by when tenants must report defects. This guide explains in practical terms which deadlines apply to tenants, how to respond correctly and on time, and what rights exist in case of late increases or missing statements. I show concrete action steps, notice periods for terminations and applications as well as tips for securing evidence. The aim is that you as a tenant in Austria recognize deadlines, avoid missing them and enter conversations or proceedings better prepared. If you act early, you protect your rights and avoid unnecessary costs or legal disputes.

Which deadlines apply to tenants?

Fundamentally there are different deadlines: payment deadlines for monthly rent, deadlines for service charge and heating statements and deadlines for reporting defects. Many deadlines arise from the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) or from contractual agreements; check your lease and statutory rules carefully.^[1]

• Monthly rent (rent): due by the 3rd working day unless contract states otherwise.
• Service charge statement (payment): usually within 12 months after the accounting period ends.
• Heating cost statement (payment): often the same deadline as service charges, check your contract.
• Reporting defects (notice): report damages to the landlord immediately in writing.
• Deadline for rent reduction due to defects (repair): document the defect and deadline, start calculation or reduction promptly.

Rent increases, formal requirements and how to respond

Landlords often must notify rent increases in writing and comply with form requirements; deadlines and formal rules are found in the MRG. Respond in writing promptly if you wish to contest the increase.^[1]

• Rent increase (notice): must be justified in writing and properly delivered.
• Period to object (by): check the deadline in the letter or act shortly after receipt.
• Evidence gathering (record): collect statements, photos and correspondence to support your position.

Termination and court deadlines

Termination periods depend on contract type and duration; extraordinary terminations often have short deadlines. In court matters the district court is competent; observe deadlines for actions and appeals and consult legal advice if needed.^[2]

• Termination periods (time): depend on contract and law; check the exact period in the lease.
• Eviction/handback (move-out): deadlines for vacating can be set by the court.
• Court deadlines (court): file claims at the district court and observe procedural deadlines.

FAQ

What deadline do I have to respond to a service charge statement?

You should check the statement immediately and ask questions in writing within a short time; formal deadlines can be up to 12 months.

What happens if I pay rent late?

Late payment can trigger reminders and default consequences; landlords may initiate legal steps after a warning.

How long do I have to report defects?

Report defects immediately; a quick documentation is important for later claims.

How-To

1. Check the letter carefully and note the date of receipt and deadlines.
2. Gather evidence: statements, photos and correspondence as proof.
3. Contact the landlord in writing and request clarification within a clear deadline.
4. If necessary, prepare a claim or seek court assistance at the district court.

Help and Support / Resources

• RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic
• Justiz.gv.at - Information on courts and procedures
• JustizOnline - Forms and electronic procedures

1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - District courts and competence