Key Loss & Deposit Deadlines for Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria it is important to know deadlines for key loss and deposit refunds. If you lose keys, inform your landlord promptly and keep documentation to ensure costs and potential liability issues can be clarified transparently. For deposit refunds there are statutory and contractual rules: landlords may withhold part of the deposit in certain cases, but must provide clear accounting. This overview explains which deadlines typically apply, which proofs are useful and which steps tenants can take to protect their rights. You will receive practical advice, useful actions and references to official Austrian sources so you can act safely and informed.
What applies in case of key loss?
When keys are lost: notify your landlord quickly and in writing, clarify whether a lock change is necessary and whether you will be charged. The legal basis for tenancy law is set out in the Mietrechtsgesetz.[1]
- Inform immediately, ideally within a few days.
- Clarify whether locks need to be replaced to ensure security.
- Clarify who bears the cost: sometimes the tenant, sometimes the landlord.
Deadlines and deposit refunds
There is no single statutory deadline for deposit refunds; typically refunds occur after deduction of legitimate claims and after accounting. If there is a dispute over deductions or amounts, proceedings at the competent district court may be necessary.[2]
When may a landlord make withholdings?
- For documented damage or unpaid rent the landlord may deduct amounts from the deposit.
- Each deduction should be supported by receipts, invoices or photographic evidence.
How long does the refund take?
The timeframe until full refund varies: often accounts are prepared within a few weeks to months. Practically, a tenant should politely inquire after a few weeks and insist on a transparent accounting.[1]
- Checking after 2–6 weeks is common if no accounting has been provided.
- The deposit is paid back only after a correct accounting and deduction of legitimate claims.
Documentation and evidence
Keep all receipts: photos at move-out, repair invoices, payment proofs and written communication with the landlord. Good documentation makes enforcing your claims easier and reduces the risk of unjustified deductions.
- Save photos and condition reports at move-in and move-out.
- Record important messages and deadlines in writing and note the date.
- Log contact attempts: when and how you informed the landlord.
FAQ
- Do I have to report the loss immediately?
- Yes, report key loss to the landlord as soon as possible in writing to clarify liability questions.
- Can the landlord keep my deposit because of a lost key?
- Only if verifiable damage or legitimate costs occurred; deductions must be evidenced.
- What if the landlord does not refund or claims deductions?
- Request a detailed settlement in writing and consider legal steps via the district court if necessary.
How-To
- Inform the landlord immediately in writing and request confirmation.
- Collect evidence: photos, payment proofs and reports.
- Request a detailed accounting of the deposit if deductions are claimed.
- In case of dispute: inform yourself about legal steps and deadlines at the district court.
Key Takeaways
- Notify the landlord immediately and keep proof of the notification.
- Require a clear, itemised accounting for any deposit deductions.
