Incorrect Service Charges: Tenants in Austria

Many tenants in Austria receive service charge statements that seem unclear or incorrect. When items are double-counted, receipts are missing or allocation keys are unclear, uncertainty and demands for back-payment can arise. This article explains step by step how you as a tenant can check the statement, which receipts to request and how to observe deadlines. You will receive concrete action steps, sample texts for contacting the landlord and guidance on when legal measures make sense. Legal bases and official forms are also mentioned so you can make informed decisions and correct possible errors without unnecessary effort.

What is an incorrect service charge statement?

An incorrect statement can contain wrong amounts, allocations that cannot be understood or missing evidence. Typical problems are incorrect allocation keys, incomplete receipts and calculation errors. First check which cost types were billed and whether these are listed in the rental agreement.

Check in 6 steps

1. Check deadlines: Pay attention to objection and submission deadlines stated in the statement.
2. Verify amounts: Compare totals and check whether advance payments were credited correctly.
3. Request receipts: Ask in writing for invoices and payment receipts.
4. Contact the landlord: Write or call the landlord to clarify uncertainties.
5. Informal objection: Send a short dated sample letter listing the specific points you dispute.
6. Legal steps: If no agreement is possible, clarify the next steps with the mediation body or the district court.

As a legal basis, provisions of the Tenancy Act may be relevant; check the paragraphs if uncertain.

When to request receipts and what to ask for?

Request the following documents: supplier invoices, maintenance contracts, receipts for caretaker or cleaning costs and proof for consumption-based costs. Ask for a clear breakdown of allocation keys and calculation methods.

Communication: sample wording

A short letter often helps: name the specific items you dispute and set a polite deadline for presenting the receipts. If the landlord does not respond, send a formal objection and consider further steps.

FAQ

How long do I have to object to the statement?

Check the statement for stated deadlines; in general you should object as soon as possible and observe deadlines to avoid losing rights.

Who examines receipts if the landlord does not cooperate?

You can involve the mediation body or the district court; there receipts are reviewed and legal steps are discussed.

Where can I find official forms or legal texts?

Official legal texts and guidance on forms can be found in the Austrian legal information systems and justice portals.

How-To

1. Create a deadline note: Record the date you received the statement and set an internal deadline.
2. Request receipts: Send a list of the specific receipts you want to see.
3. Send a sample letter: Use a short dated letter to formally complain.
4. If necessary, consider legal action: Consult the mediation body or the district court for next steps.

Help and Support / Resources

• Justice information hotline – Justiz.gv.at
• MRG legal text – RIS
• Forms and e‑services – JustizOnline

1. [1] RIS – Tenancy Act (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at – District courts and procedures
3. [3] JustizOnline – Electronic forms