Documents for Comparative Rent for Tenants in Austria

As a tenant in Austria you can submit documents when determining the customary comparative rent to protect your rights. This guide explains which documents landlords or courts typically expect, how to systematically collect evidence and which deadlines apply. I explain in plain language which rental agreements, payment receipts, listings and comparable units are useful, how photos or reports help and what role the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) plays. At the end you will find a practical checklist, frequently asked questions and a step-by-step guide on how to submit documents or prepare legal steps if needed. The information is general and shows practical steps; in concrete disputes seek timely help from advisory services or legal representation.

Which documents do tenants need?

For reviewing the customary comparative rent, these documents are particularly important. Collect every original or readable copy and note sources of comparable units.

• Rental agreement(s) for the current and previous tenancy periods
• Payment receipts: transfers, cash receipts or bank statements as proof of paid rent
• Handover reports and move-in/move-out protocols
• Listings and offers of comparable apartments
• Photos of condition, heating and damages in the apartment
• Receipts for operating costs, repairs and modernization measures

How to evaluate documents?

Compare listings by location, size, features and year of construction. Note differences and create a table with price per square meter. Mark outliers and check whether special features or outstanding repairs affect comparisons.

How-To

1. Collect the rental agreement, payment receipts and photos.
2. Keep a list of comparable apartments with listing link and key figures.
3. Create a short summary with square meter price and deviations.
4. Submit documents when agreeing with the landlord or, if necessary, to the district court; use JustizOnline forms for submission^[2].
5. Keep copies and a handover record for potential legal actions.

Practical notes and deadlines

Note that deadlines for appeals or legal actions can be short. Respond promptly to landlord or court communications and keep evidence ready. For legal foundations the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) can be decisive and provides the basis for calculating comparative rent^[1].

Frequently Asked Questions

Which documents are most important for comparative rent?

The most important are the rental agreement, payment receipts, listings of comparable apartments and photos of the apartment condition.

How long should I keep receipts?

Keep rental and payment receipts for at least three to five years, longer if disputes are ongoing.

Where do I submit documents?

Ideally submit documents first with the landlord; in disputes the district court may be competent and JustizOnline offers a digital submission option.

Help and support

• RIS — Federal Legal Information System
• Justiz.gv.at — Court information
• JustizOnline — Electronic forms and submission

1. [1] RIS — Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] JustizOnline — Court Forms