Mediation Documents for Tenants in Austria

Dispute resolution (incl. rent reduction) 2 min read · published September 10, 2025

As a tenant in Austria you can use mediation or an arbitration board to resolve disputes with your landlord without going to court. Good preparation is important for success: complete documents, clear evidence of defects or payment issues, and a short chronology of events. This article explains which documents are often requested, how to organize evidence and which deadlines to watch. It offers practical steps so you can present your situation clearly and act in a structured way at meetings or appointments. You will find checklists, guidance for negotiations and tips on going to the district court if an agreement cannot be reached. Good luck.

Which documents are needed?

Gather all relevant papers before a mediation or arbitration appointment. Well-organized documents help to clearly prove your position and avoid misunderstandings.

Keep originals safe and bring copies to appointments.
  • Tenancy agreement and annexes (document) – copies of both sides and any addenda.
  • Payment records (rent payments) – bank statements, receipts or transfer confirmations from recent months.
  • Photos and videos of defects (photo) – include date and a short description matching your chronology.
  • Correspondence and forms (notice form) – emails, letters, reminders and official notices.
  • Repair bills and confirmations (repair) – cost estimates, invoices and confirmations from tradespeople.

Preparing evidence correctly

Create a simple chronology: date, short description of the incident, who was informed and what response occurred. Number the evidence and refer to the copies in the chronology so everything can be found quickly. Pay attention to deadlines and formal requirements of the arbitration board or a court; tenancy law regulates many aspects of the rental relationship.[1]

Detailed documentation increases your chances of reaching an agreement.

How do I file a complaint or request?

Many district offices and arbitration boards have forms or require a short written summary in advance. You can hand in documents personally, send them by post, or use electronic forms, for example via JustizOnline for certain procedures.[2] Describe the core issue briefly, attach the most important evidence and suggest possible dates for a hearing.

Submit documents in good time, otherwise deadlines may affect your rights.

How-To

  1. Collect documents: prepare copies of the tenancy agreement, payment records, photos and correspondence.
  2. Create a chronology: list incidents in order with dates and short descriptions.
  3. Contact: inform the arbitration board or landlord and propose a meeting.
  4. Submit: fill in forms or send documents by post, email or via JustizOnline.
  5. Attend the appointment: be punctual and present documents in an organized way.

FAQ

Which documents do I need for mediation or arbitration?
You should have your tenancy agreement, payment records, photos of defects, correspondence and a short chronology ready.
What happens if arbitration fails?
If no agreement is reached, you can consider legal action and possibly file a claim at the district court.
Can I submit forms online?
Many procedures allow electronic submission through official portals such as JustizOnline or the respective arbitration board.

Key Takeaways

  • Gather and organize all relevant documents systematically.
  • Observe deadlines and submit materials on time.
  • Document all communications with the landlord or authorities.

Help and Support


  1. [1] RIS: Tenancy Law (MRG)
  2. [2] JustizOnline: E-Forms
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Austria

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.