Find Student Rentals: Avoid Mistakes in Austria
Finding a suitable student rental in Austria is often time-consuming and emotionally stressful. Many students and tenants overlook important points such as additional costs, notice periods, or the condition of the apartment, which can lead to unexpected expenses or legal disputes later. This article is aimed at tenants and students in Austria and explains in plain language which mistakes occur frequently, how to review contracts safely, and what steps to take if problems arise. Practical checklists and clear tips help you avoid common pitfalls and better protect your rights as a tenant.
What are common mistakes?
Common mistakes are unclear agreements on heating and operating costs, missing documentation of the apartment's condition at handover, too-short deadlines for objections, and incompletely read rental contract clauses. These points often lead to additional claims or disputes over the deposit.[1]
Preparation & Checklist
- Set a budget: realistically calculate rent and additional costs.
- Viewing: take photos of the condition and record defects in writing.
- Check the lease: read duration, notice periods and special agreements.
- Deposit: clarify amount, payment method and return conditions.
- Note deadlines: handover, registration and deposit claims.
Rights and obligations
In Austria, the Tenancy Act and general contract rules regulate the duties of tenants and landlords. As a tenant you are entitled to a usable apartment; landlords must remedy defects. In case of uncertainties, issuing a written deadline before formal steps is often sensible.[1] If you want to check legal steps or forms, official e‑forms and information are available via JustizOnline.[2]
FAQ
- Can the landlord increase the rent during the semester?
- Generally, rent increases are only possible under legally permitted conditions; check the contract terms and seek legal advice if unsure.
- What to do about hidden defects after moving in?
- Inform the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy; document photos and witnesses.
- How do I get my deposit back?
- After moving out the landlord must explain justified deductions; if not possible, you can claim the deposit in court.
How-To
- Before the viewing: set a budget and prepare questions for the landlord.
- During the viewing: take photos, note meter readings and record defects.
- When signing the lease: read all clauses, ask questions and get amendments in writing.
- After moving in: keep the handover protocol and note deadlines for registration and claims.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- [2] Justice - Information on Courts and Procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - E‑Forms and Services
