Noise Log & Quiet Hours for Tenants in Austria

Tenants in Austria often face conflicts over noise disturbances, pets or shared house rules. This article explains which documents you should collect, how to keep a noise log correctly and which steps are helpful for repeated disturbances. I describe which photos, notifications to the landlord and written notes count as evidence and how deadlines, witnesses and official notifications to authorities or the district court can have an effect. The goal is to give you clear, practical advice so you can assert your rights as a tenant confidently and avoid unnecessary escalation.

Which documents to collect?

• Photos (photo) with date and time
• Date and time of each disturbance
• Written notifications to the landlord or property manager (email or letter)
• Audio/video recordings as supporting evidence
• Note witnesses by name and document contact details
• Relevant forms or medical certificates

Practical steps for noise disturbance

If noise occurs regularly, proceed in a structured way: collect evidence, notify the landlord in writing, and try to talk to the neighbours. Note deadlines and respond promptly to replies.

• Create a noise log with clear sequence and description
• Send a formal notification to the landlord and keep a copy
• Try a friendly solution with the person causing the noise first
• Observe deadlines and respond to official time limits
• If necessary, consider further steps at the district court^[2]

FAQ

What is a noise log and how do I use it?

A noise log is a chronological record of disturbances with date, time, duration and description; it serves as evidence for the landlord or court.

Which documents are most important?

Especially important are photos, audio/video recordings, written notifications to the landlord, witness statements and possibly medical certificates.

When should I involve the district court?

If repeated disturbances continue despite documentation and notification to the landlord, involving the district court can be a next step; inform yourself in advance about deadlines and formal requirements.

How-To

1. Start immediately: note date, time and duration of each disturbance
2. Describe the type of noise and the location precisely
3. Take photos or short audio/video recordings as support
4. Write to the landlord and request a response within a reasonable time^[3]
5. Document witnesses and collect their statements
6. If necessary, submit the collected documents to the district court^[1]

Help and Support

• [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
• [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information about courts
• [3] JustizOnline - Electronic forms

1. [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information about courts
3. [3] JustizOnline - Electronic forms