Deadlines for Tenants: Renewal & Termination in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, it is important to know the deadlines for renewing or ending your tenancy. Deadlines determine when you must give notice, respond to repair requests, or agree to a contract extension. In this article we explain clearly and practically which secondary deadlines apply, how notice periods are calculated and which steps you should take within set deadlines, such as submitting defect reports or filing objections. You will learn typical deadlines like notice periods for fixed and open-ended contracts, deadlines for repair reports under MRG §3[1] and how to document deadlines. If unsure, we show when a prompt written reminder or involving the district courts[2] is sensible.
Understanding Deadlines
Deadlines often start with the service of a notice or defect report. Some are set by law, others by the lease. Pay special attention to deadlines that concern your obligations to cooperate or report defects.
- Tenant notice period (open-ended): typically 3 months.
- Notice for fixed-term contracts: the tenancy ends at the agreed term, possibly with specific conditions.
- Deadline for defect reports under MRG §3: report defects without delay to preserve claims.
- Evidence deadlines: photos, emails and delivery confirmations help prove timelines.
Practical Advice
Documentation is central: note dates and times, save correspondence and request confirmations of receipt if possible. When setting a deadline, do so in writing and specify a clear date.
- Forms and written reminders are often the first step.
- Photos and logs serve as evidence in later disputes.
- Contact the landlord in writing and document any phone agreements.
FAQ
- Which notice period applies to me?
- The applicable period depends on the contract; for open-ended residential leases it is often three months, for fixed-term contracts the tenancy ends when the agreed term expires.
- How do I report repairs within the deadline?
- You should report defects in writing, describe the defect and set a reasonable deadline for remedy; keep date and proof of sending.
- What happens if I miss deadlines?
- If deadlines are missed, claims can be lost or court action becomes more difficult; check whether reinstatement or an out-of-court settlement is possible.
How-To
- Check your lease immediately for agreed deadlines.
- Record and secure all relevant data, receipts and photos.
- Report defects in writing and set a clear deadline for remedy.
- Send reminders in time and request confirmation of receipt.
- Use the district courts or JustizOnline forms if out-of-court solutions fail.
Help and Support
- Legal texts and ordinances (RIS)
- Information on courts and procedures (Justiz)
- Electronic forms and submissions (JustizOnline)
