Can I as a tenant request inspection of records?

Yes. Tenants can often request inspection of billing statements and contract documents; check your lease and applicable rental law.

How long do I have to object?

Deadlines vary; respond within any deadline stated in the notice or within 30 days if no deadline is given.

What can I do if the landlord does not cooperate?

Document all contacts, send a formal complaint, set deadlines, and involve the district court if necessary.

Inspection & Complaint for Tenants in Austria

Lease types (fixed/indefinite, main/sublet) 2 min read · published September 10, 2025

As a tenant in Austria, you may need to request inspection of billing records or your lease and decide what to do if you disagree with charges or a termination. This guide explains in plain language what rights tenants have, how to file an objection or complaint properly, which deadlines apply, and which documents serve as evidence. The steps are practical: document, communicate with the landlord, observe deadlines, and consider court action if necessary. The goal is to give you clear actions so you can enforce your tenant rights in Austria confidently and well prepared. At the end you will find an FAQ, a step-by-step how-to, and official legal sources.

What does inspection mean and when is it possible?

Inspection means that tenants can request access to billing statements, payment records, and contractual documents; sometimes the Mietrechtsgesetz governs the landlord's obligations^[1]. Request copies in writing and keep originals and notes of all communications.

Detailed documentation increases your chances in disputes.

How to file an objection or complaint

Gather all receipts, photos, and messages as evidence.
Contact the landlord first in writing and request clarification.
Submit a formal written complaint; use registered mail if possible.
Set clear deadlines and document dates and times of each action.
If no agreement is reached, consider legal action at the district court^[2].

Respond to legal notices within deadlines to avoid losing rights.

FAQ

Can I as a tenant request inspection of records?: Yes. Tenants can often request inspection of billing statements and contract documents; check your lease and applicable rental law.
How long do I have to object?: Deadlines vary; respond within any deadline stated in the notice or within 30 days if no deadline is given.
What can I do if the landlord does not cooperate?: Document all contacts, send a formal complaint, set deadlines, and involve the district court if necessary.

How to file a complaint

Collect and organize all relevant evidence and photos as step one.
Draft a written complaint with a clear request and deadline.
Send the complaint by registered mail and keep the delivery confirmation.
If needed, file a claim at the district court and present your documentation^[2].

Help and Support

Categories

Tenant rights & basic protections (MRG) Lease types (fixed/indefinite, main/sublet) Deposit & blocked account Rent & increases (reference rent, categories, form) Service charges & settlements Maintenance & repair duties (MRG §3) Renovations, upgrades & compensation Tenant termination (notice, handover) Landlord termination, protection & eviction Check-in/out (inspection, keys, meters) House rules, quiet hours, neighbours & pets Privacy & access (viewings, locks) Discrimination & equal treatment Accessibility & reasonable adjustments Municipal & cooperative housing Housing allowance & benefits Dispute resolution (incl. rent reduction) Registration & authorities Insurance & tenant liability Energy, heating & hot water Dwelling quality & health Subletting, flat-sharing & co-tenancy Student housing Data protection & screening (FADP/GDPR) Short-term/holiday letting (Airbnb) Templates & model letters Home safety (fire, CO, gas)