Key Handover & Meter Readings for Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, you will often face practical questions during moves: who reads meter readings, when is the key handover, and how do you properly document defects or meter readings? This text explains in plain language what duties and rights tenants have, which deadlines must be observed, and which records help in later disputes. You will receive concrete steps for the handover, advice on communication with the landlord and information about official bodies. At the end you will find a short how-to, a FAQ section and official support services for tenants in Austria.
What applies to key handover & meter readings?
At handovers, meter readings and the key status should be recorded in writing; this protects both tenants and landlords. Legal obligations for maintenance and repair are regulated in the Mietrechtsgesetz; relevant provisions can be consulted.[1]
- Record key handover (keys): note date, number of keys and any damages in writing.
- Read and note meter readings (record): document electricity, gas and water with meter number and date.
- Observe deadlines (deadline): keep handover appointments, termination periods and billing cycles in mind.
- Keep correspondence (form): retain handover protocol, defect reports and landlord responses.
If the landlord requests access to meter readings or wants to coordinate reading, clarify in advance who is authorized to read the meters and whether appointments should be agreed in writing. If in doubt, a photo of the meter reading can serve as evidence.
Rights, duties and who pays what
Tenants are obliged to treat the apartment with care; major repairs are often the landlord's responsibility, while minor maintenance may be contractually regulated. Cost questions are usually clarified by the lease or statutory rules. For costs that are reasonably required, the landlord generally bears the main maintenance expenses; however, tenants may carry out short-term measures to avert danger and later seek reimbursement if agreed or legally provided.
FAQ
- Who must read meter readings on move-in?
- It is common for tenant and landlord to record meter readings together on move-in; if the landlord is absent, tenants should take photos and note the date.
- What belongs in a handover protocol?
- Date, names, meter readings with numbers, precise description of defects, key condition and signatures of both parties.
- Can I reclaim costs for minor repairs?
- Whether and when costs are reimbursed depends on the lease and legal provisions; document invoices and agreements.
How-To
- Preparation: check the lease and note all meter numbers (record).
- Joint reading: arrange a tenant-landlord appointment for key handover and meter reading (keys).
- Create protocol: record meter readings, defects and key counts in writing and obtain signatures (form).
- Secure evidence: photograph meters and keep all documents and receipts (record).
Key Takeaways
- Documentation is the best protection in later disputes.
- Observe deadlines and respond promptly to notices.
- A signed handover often determines claims for compensation.
Help and Support
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Federal Government
- [2] Justice - Information on Courts and Procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - Forms and Electronic Services
