Deadlines for Tenants: Repair Duties in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, it is important to understand deadlines for repairs and maintenance duties. The Tenancy Act regulates landlord obligations and your reporting duties as a tenant under MRG §3[1]. This article clearly explains which deadlines apply when reporting defects, how to document appointments and time limits, which grace periods are legally sensible, and when legal action is possible. It describes practical steps for securing evidence, contacting the landlord and preparing a complaint or termination. I also show how to read contract deadlines and the role of district courts in disputes. Practical checklists help with a structured approach.
What applies to deadlines?
Generally, defects should be reported as soon as possible. For many repairs, deadlines of 14 to 30 days are common; immediate action is required if there is a danger to health or safety. Set a clear written deadline and document the date and time of the report as well as photos or videos as evidence. If unclear, a deadline can mark the start of a later legal process. In disputes, district courts often decide on enforcing grace periods and repair claims[2].
How to report defects and set deadlines
- Send a written report to the landlord (email or registered mail) with a description of the defect.
- Collect evidence: photos, timestamps, witness statements.
- Clearly state a deadline, e.g. 14 days for repair or remedy.
- Agree on access arrangements if tradespeople need entry.
- Log contact attempts: date, time and content of calls or messages.
Which deadlines apply to repairs?
The expected timeframe depends on urgency. Minor repairs can usually be done quickly, while major repairs often require planning and materials. If heating, water or electricity fail, rapid remedy is necessary; in such cases report the defect immediately and set a very short deadline. For non-urgent maintenance, a period of several weeks may be reasonable.
- Urgent repairs (danger, loss of heating/water) must be reported immediately and given a short deadline.
- For complex works, agree on deadlines for obtaining quotes and starting work.
- Expect realistic timeframes of several weeks for non-urgent cases.
If the landlord does not respond
If the landlord does not respond after the set grace period, document the steps taken and consider legal options. These include contacting a conciliation body, asserting a rent reduction, or enforcing repairs in court at the district court; necessary forms and procedures are available via JustizOnline[3]. Learn about deadlines for filing claims and required evidence to protect your rights in time.
- Consider legal action at the district court if deadlines are ineffective.
- Seek advice from tenant associations or official bodies before filing a lawsuit.
- Prepare your documentation for court proceedings in an organized manner.
FAQ
- How quickly must I report a defect?
- You should report defects immediately and set a written deadline; 14 to 30 days are common depending on urgency.[1]
- Can I reduce the rent if repairs do not happen?
- A rent reduction is possible if the living quality is significantly impaired; document the scope and duration of the defect carefully.
- What is the role of the district court?
- The district court decides on enforcing deadlines and can order enforcement or repair measures.[2]
How-To
- Document the defect with photos and notes.
- Send a written report to the landlord with a deadline.
- Set an appropriate grace period (e.g. 14 days for minor defects).
- Log all contacts and requests.
- Take legal action at the district court or via JustizOnline if there is no response.
Key Takeaways
- Report defects promptly and in writing.
- Set clear, verifiable deadlines.
- Keep organized evidence to support any legal steps.
