Documents for Tenants: Hearing in Austria
As a tenant in Austria it is important to have the right documents ready for a hearing about maintenance and repairs under MRG §3[1]. This guide explains which documents, photos and evidence you should collect, how to respect deadlines and which forms are helpful[2]. It is aimed at tenants without legal training and gives practical steps: from chronological documentation and correspondence with the landlord to handling contractor invoices and expert reports. This increases your chances of presenting your claims clearly and meeting deadlines. At the end you will find a checklist, a short how-to and official contacts in Austria. The guidance is based on Austrian law and is practical in nature.
Which documents you should collect
- Tenancy agreement and additional agreements
- Invoices, estimates and payment receipts
- Photos, videos and date evidence
- Repair requests, defect notices and deadlines
- Expert reports and contractor invoices
- Witness and contact list
How to organize evidence
Arrange files so a third party can follow the timeline. Label photos with date and location, attach invoices chronologically and create a clear file index.
- Document date and time (when the defect occurred)
- Store photos and videos with date information
- File correspondence chronologically and make copies
- Collect invoices and estimates
Forms and deadlines
Use official forms for judicial filings or notices and respect statutory deadlines; missing a deadline can cost rights.
FAQ
- Which deadlines must I observe?
- Observe the landlord's deadlines and court dates; document incoming deadlines immediately and act within the stated periods.
- Who pays for repairs?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for maintenance obligations under MRG §3; cost allocation depends on the individual case and may vary with contract terms.[1]
- What evidence is sufficient in court?
- Photos, invoices, written defect notices, witnesses and expert reports are key pieces of evidence.
How-To
- Gather all relevant documents in one folder.
- Photograph defects from different angles and date the files.
- Send a written defect notice to the landlord and request confirmation.
- Collect invoices, estimates and payment receipts.
- Use the checklist and submit documents via JustizOnline if needed.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Collect evidence systematically and chronologically.
- Report defects early and in writing.
- Forms and deadlines determine legal options.
