Move-Out Cleaning & Deposit: Tenant Guide Austria
As a tenant in Austria you will face concrete questions about move-out cleaning and the return of the security deposit. This guide explains in plain language which documents landlords typically request, which deadlines apply and how to properly secure receipts, photos and protocols. You will receive practical advice on cleaning invoices, handover reports and bank statements as well as step-by-step tips on how to review claims and assert your rights. The aim is to reduce uncertainty and give you clear actions for moving out so deposit disputes can be avoided or resolved quickly. At the end you will find a short FAQ, a practical how-to for submitting documents and links to official authorities such as RIS and the justice portal in case you consider legal steps.
Which documents do you need?
- Deposit receipt or extract from the security deposit account.
- Handover report with meter readings and signatures.
- Photos or video recordings of the apartment condition at move-out.
- Cleaning invoice with a description of services.
- Bank statements documenting payment or deposit return.
- Receipts for previously agreed repairs or cost assumptions.
Cleaning: Invoice & Proof
For billing, the landlord may only charge actual costs incurred. A rough estimate is rarely sufficient; request a detailed invoice with date, service and price. Before-and-after photos are important, as is the handover report that can record defects.
- Detailed cleaning invoice with service description.
- Before/after photos for documentation.
- Signed handover report noting any defects.
Deposit: Return & Deadlines
The deposit must be returned after settling outstanding claims. What counts as justified deductions can be disputed; therefore receipts and reports are decisive. Document every claim in writing and, if necessary, set a deadline for return.
- Set clear deadlines: 30–90 days are commonly used.
- Only proven costs may be deducted.
- Document all deductions with invoices and receipts.
FAQ
- When must the landlord return the deposit?
- The landlord should return the deposit after accounting for utility charges and justified deductions within a reasonable period; commonly 1–3 months is cited.[1]
- What evidence helps in a deposit dispute?
- Photos, a signed handover report, cleaning invoices and bank statements are the key proofs.
- What to do if the landlord does not pay?
- You should first set a payment deadline and, if needed, send a written reminder; for further steps get information on court procedures at the district court.[2]
How-To
- Collect all documents: deposit receipt, handover report, photos and invoices.
- Send the landlord a formal request for return with a deadline and attach the evidence.
- Wait the set deadline and record dates and communication method.
- If no agreement is reached, consider starting a proceeding at the district court or use electronic forms via JustizOnline.[3]
Help and Support / Resources
- RIS — Legal Information System of the Republic
- Justiz: Information on courts and procedures
- JustizOnline: Electronic forms
