Platform Rentals: Costs for Tenants in Austria
Who bears which costs?
In platform rentals, costs differ depending on whether the platform only mediates or the landlord provides additional services. In general: ongoing rent and agreed operating costs remain governed by the rental contract; additional platform fees or short-term cleaning may be regulated separately. The contract between tenant and landlord and the platform terms are decisive.
- Cleaning fees: May apply for short-term rentals; check the agreement.
- Brokerage or service fees: Often arranged between guest and platform, rarely a tenant's obligation toward the landlord.
- Damage and repairs: Compensation can be required for damage caused by the tenant; basic maintenance duties are usually the landlord's responsibility.
- Deposit: Remains a contractual matter and must be handled according to applicable law.
Obligations for upkeep and repair
Rental law often provides that landlords are responsible for the basic upkeep of the rented property; concrete repair duties may follow from the rental agreement and the MRG, for example in the case of significant defects or heating failures ([1]). As a tenant, you should report defects in writing and secure photos with timestamps.
Dispute resolution: steps in case of conflict
If costs are disputed, systematic action helps: collect documentation, contact the landlord, check platform terms and, if necessary, consider legal action. Many problems can be solved through clear communication; otherwise the district court and higher instances may be involved.
- Documentation (evidence): Collect photos, messages and invoices.
- Contact: Inform landlord and platform in writing and set a deadline.
- Court action: Consider filing at the district court if needed.
FAQ
- Who pays the cleaning after a platform stay?
- It depends on the contract and the platform rules; cleaning fees are often agreed separately and borne by the guest if clearly stipulated.
- Who is responsible for repairs?
- Basic upkeep duties usually lie with the landlord; tenants can be liable for damage they caused.
- Can I challenge a platform charge?
- Yes: check the platform's T&Cs, gather evidence and contact the platform and landlord first; legal steps are possible.
How-To
- Observe deadlines: Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to fix defects.
- Collect evidence: Systematically secure photos, messages and invoices.
- Contact landlord and platform: Notify in writing and document proposed solutions.
- Arrange urgent repairs: Act immediately if health or usability is at risk and keep cost receipts.
- Consider legal steps: If no solution, the district court may be competent.
Help and Support / Resources
- Statutes and MRG information — RIS
- Guidance on court procedures — Justiz
- Forms and e-justice services — JustizOnline
