Documents for Tenant Eviction Protection in Austria

Maintenance & repair duties (MRG §3) 2 min read · published September 10, 2025

As a tenant in Austria, it is important to know which documents strengthen your protection against termination and your rights in case of eviction. This guide explains clearly which documents you should collect — such as the rental agreement, move-in/out protocols, written reports of defects and proofs of rent payments — and how repair duties under MRG §3[1] affect housing quality. We show which deadlines apply, which evidence helps in court, and what steps to take if the landlord serves notice or eviction is threatened. The language is kept simple so that non-lawyers can act quickly and find the right forms or advisory services.[2]

Which documents do you need?

  • Rental agreement (signed copy, contract pages; form)
  • Move-in/-out protocol (document)
  • Written reports of defects (emails, registered mail; notice)
  • Repair invoices and cost estimates (repair)
  • Proofs of rent payments (transfers, receipts; payment)
  • Photos and videos of defects (photo, video)
  • Written termination notices or warnings (notice)
  • Court letters or summons (court)
  • Documents on key handover and apartment handover (move-out)
Keep all documents in chronological order.

What to do in case of termination or eviction?

If you receive a notice of termination or eviction is threatened, structured action helps: note deadlines, collect evidence and respond in time. The following steps show the priorities now.

  • Check deadlines and prepare a written response immediately (meet deadlines)
  • Sort and copy all receipts and photos (evidence)
  • Contact tenant associations or legal advice for an assessment
  • If necessary, consider court action or mediation (district court)
Respond within the deadlines or you may lose rights.

FAQ

Which documents are important for successfully defending against eviction?
Rental agreement, move-in/out protocol, defect reports, repair invoices, payment receipts, and photos/videos as well as written correspondence are crucial to prove condition and communication.
How does MRG §3 relate to repairs?
MRG §3 sets out the landlord's maintenance duties; tenants should report defects, set deadlines and collect repair receipts to substantiate claims.[1]

How-To

  1. Secure all receipts, photos and documents immediately (documentation).
  2. Note deadlines and respond in writing within required timeframes.
  3. Contact tenant associations or legal counsel to clarify options.
  4. If needed, file documents with the court or use mediation; official forms are available online.[2]

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) current version
  2. [2] JustizOnline - Electronic forms and services
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Austria

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.