Noise Problems: Tenant Rights in Austria

Maintenance & repair duties (MRG §3) 2 min read · published September 10, 2025

What to do about noise disturbance?

If persistent or recurring noise affects your apartment in Austria, tenants have protections. First try to resolve the situation calmly with the source or the landlord. If the disturbance continues or repeatedly breaches the tenancy agreement, certain rights and obligations under tenancy law apply and are briefly explained here.[1]

  • Log noise: note date, time, duration and type of noise.
  • Collect evidence: photos, videos or audio recordings and note witnesses.
  • Inform the landlord (preferably in writing) and set a deadline.
  • Prepare formal complaint: state dates, describe specific disturbances and propose remedies.
  • If necessary: seek mediation or consider legal action (district court competent).[2]
Good documentation increases the likelihood that your concern is taken seriously.

Evidence: Practical steps

A noise log helps to prove recurring disturbances: record start, end, loudness (subjective) and possible causes. Short photos or audio clips can support your case. Keep copies of emails, chats or written complaints. If neighbors can be witnesses, record their names and contact details.

Witness statements are often decisive when formal measurements are not available.

Formal complaint and deadlines

If a conversation does not help, send a written request to the landlord with a reasonable deadline to stop the disturbance. Mention specific times and attach your noise log. If the landlord does not act, consider mediation or filing a claim at the district court. In Austria certain deadlines apply; timely action is important.[2]

Respond to deadlines and legal notices within the stated time limits.

FAQ

When is noise considered a tenancy defect?
Noise is considered a defect if it substantially impairs the contractual use of the apartment or repeatedly violates quiet hours.
How do I document noise correctly?
Keep a noise log with date and time, save photos or short recordings and note possible witnesses.
Who can I contact if the landlord does not help?
You can use mediation services or file a claim at the district court; free tenant advice services also provide guidance.

How-To

  1. Keep a log: immediately document noise and secure evidence.
  2. Notify: inform the landlord in writing (notice) and set a deadline.
  3. File a complaint (file): use mediation or submit a formal complaint.
  4. Consider legal action: if unresolved, proceed to the district court.

Help and Support / Resources

Categories

Tenant rights & basic protections (MRG) Lease types (fixed/indefinite, main/sublet) Deposit & blocked account Rent & increases (reference rent, categories, form) Service charges & settlements Maintenance & repair duties (MRG §3) Renovations, upgrades & compensation Tenant termination (notice, handover) Landlord termination, protection & eviction Check-in/out (inspection, keys, meters) House rules, quiet hours, neighbours & pets Privacy & access (viewings, locks) Discrimination & equal treatment Accessibility & reasonable adjustments Municipal & cooperative housing Housing allowance & benefits Dispute resolution (incl. rent reduction) Registration & authorities Insurance & tenant liability Energy, heating & hot water Dwelling quality & health Subletting, flat-sharing & co-tenancy Student housing Data protection & screening (FADP/GDPR) Short-term/holiday letting (Airbnb) Templates & model letters Home safety (fire, CO, gas)
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.

Related Articles