Documents for Tenant Complaint in Austria

As a tenant in Austria, mediation can help resolve disputes about rent, defects, or termination. To ensure your application to the dispute resolution board is reviewed promptly, prepare all relevant documents: tenancy agreement, handover protocol, payment receipts, photos of defects and written communication with the landlord. This guide explains step by step which documents are common, which deadlines apply and how to organize evidence effectively. It includes practical templates, guidance on deadlines and tips for preparing an oral hearing. With clear checklists and a sample cover letter we show how to present applications, meet deadlines and improve your chances in mediation.

Which documents are required?

The dispute resolution board assesses your application based on legal foundations such as the Tenancy Act (MRG) and general contract law (ABGB). ^[1] Procedural questions and jurisdiction are regulated by courts and justice authorities. ^[2] For official forms and electronic filing use JustizOnline. ^[3]

• Tenancy agreement (document), all pages and annexes.
• Handover protocol (record), if available.
• Payment receipts (receipt) for rent, deposit and service charges.
• Photos (photo) of defects with date and brief description.
• Written communication (document) with the landlord: emails, letters or printed messages.
• Rent statements and calculations (rent) in cases of rent disputes or reimbursements.

How to organize and document evidence

A clear file structure makes it easier for the dispute resolution board to review your case. Number pages, prepare a short table of contents and mark key evidence.

• Cover sheet with table of contents (document) and page numbers.
• Separate sheet with rent payments and deposit movements (rent).
• Label photos clearly (photo) and order them by date.
• Contact list (contact) with names, phone numbers and roles.

Procedure and deadlines

Submit your application completely and respond quickly to requests for additional information. Procedures can vary by board; check local instructions.

• Submit application (form) – in writing or electronically via JustizOnline.
• Supplement deadline (deadline) – often 14 days to provide missing evidence.
• Oral hearing (hearing) – an on-site appointment or video conference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which forms do I need for the mediation application?

Tenancy agreement, handover protocol, payment receipts, photos and any written communication with the landlord.

How long does a mediation procedure take?

Duration varies; cases often take weeks to a few months depending on deadlines and additional requests for evidence.

Do I need a lawyer for mediation?

No, tenants can often participate without a lawyer; legal advice can be useful for complex disputes.

How-To

1. Gather all relevant documents and sort them by date.
2. Create a cover sheet with contact information and a brief case summary.
3. Complete the application form or write a clear cover letter.
4. File the documents electronically via JustizOnline or send them by registered mail.
5. Prepare for the hearing: notes, references to evidence and a clear chronology.

Key Takeaways

• Complete documentation simplifies review by the dispute resolution board.
• Observe deadlines strictly and respond promptly to requests for supplements.
• Use JustizOnline for secure electronic submission of official forms.

Help and Support

• RIS - legal information system
• Justice information at Justiz.gv.at
• JustizOnline - electronic filings

1. [1] RIS - Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - Informationen zu Gerichten und Verfahren
3. [3] JustizOnline - Elektronische Einreichungen