Household Insurance for Tenants in Austria

As a tenant in Austria it is important to know which damages your household insurance covers and how this affects your rights under the Tenancy Act (MRG). Many tenants are unsure whether liability or renovation damages are covered and what proof obligations towards the landlord exist. This guide explains clearly which types of damage are typically covered, how to secure evidence, when to involve your insurer and when to go to the district court, and which deadlines apply for notifications. The aim is to give you clear steps so you can act quickly and securely in case of damage. Read on for practical tips on filing claims, deadlines, expected coverage, and when legal action may be appropriate. We reference relevant forms and official Austrian authorities to help you find support.

What does household insurance cover?

Household insurances for tenants can cover different risks. Typically, check whether the following areas are included:

• Document and report liability damage to third parties (document)
• Secure repairs to furnishings and installations (repair)
• Clarify glass breakage, appliance replacement and cost coverage (payment)
• Check coverage for natural hazards and additional protection against water or storm (safety)
• Consider moving costs or possible restoration costs in the tenancy (move-out)
• Coordinate contact and notification duties with insurer and landlord (contact)

Rights and obligations

As a tenant you should know your duties in the tenancy, especially notification duties for damages and the duty to cooperate in damage clarification. The Tenancy Act (MRG) regulates central protection obligations and rights for tenants^[1]. Receipts, photos and written messages to landlord and insurer are often decisive if a dispute later arises.

Filing a claim and securing evidence

When damage occurs, act in a structured way. Quick action protects your claims.

1. Inform your insurer immediately and note date and time of the call (contact)
2. Secure evidence: collect photos, videos and witness statements (document)
3. Submit the claim in writing and keep a copy of the forms (file)
4. Obtain repair estimates before commissioning work (payment)
5. If there is a dispute over liability or amount, bringing the case to the district court can be considered^[2] (court)

FAQ

Does household insurance always cover renovation damages?

Not automatically. Renovation damages are often excluded; check the policy terms and discuss possible additional coverage with the provider.

Who pays if I have a water damage caused by the neighbor?

The injured party first reports the damage to their insurer; the insurer examines liability and can seek recourse against the perpetrator or their liability insurer.

What can I do if the insurer refuses payment?

Document all evidence, request a written explanation and consider legal steps at the district court if necessary^[2].

How-To

1. Report the damage to your insurer immediately and request confirmation of receipt (contact)
2. Collect and securely store photos and receipts (document)
3. Submit the claim in writing and document the submission (file)
4. Obtain and compare repair estimates (payment)
5. Seek legal advice if liability is unclear and consider court action at the district court (court)

Help and Support

• RIS: Federal Law Database
• Justiz.gv.at: Information on procedures
• JustizOnline: Forms and eGovernment services

1. [1] RIS - Tenancy Act (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - Court procedures and jurisdictions
3. [3] JustizOnline - Electronic forms