Quiet Hours & Noise Log for Tenants in Austria
What are quiet hours?
In Austria, quiet hours are times when unnecessary noise should be avoided so that neighbours are not disturbed. Typical quiet hours concern night hours and often also midday rest; exact rules can be in the lease, house rules, or in the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)[1]. If recurring noise affects your living quality, systematic documentation is advisable before taking formal steps.
In many tenancy agreements the house rules set specific quiet hours.
When is a noise log worthwhile?
A noise log helps to prove repeated disturbances, especially if talks with the landlord do not bring improvement. It is useful for informal complaints, for communication with the property manager and as evidence in a case before the district court.
Keep noise records and evidence files organised.
How to keep a noise log
- Record the date and exact time of each disturbance.
- Describe the type, volume and duration of the noise and name affected rooms.
- Take photos or videos if useful and save files with the date.
- Name witnesses and record their observations.
- Inform the landlord in writing and send copies of the log; set deadlines for a response.
Careful documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
FAQ
- Are quiet hours the same across all of Austria?
- No. There is no uniform regulation for the whole of Austria; quiet hours can be determined by local ordinances, house rules or the lease.
- Is my noise log sufficient evidence in court?
- A carefully kept log is important; usually additional material such as photos, witness statements or expert reports are required.
- What if the landlord does not respond?
- Send a formal reminder and prepare a complaint at the district court if necessary; observe deadlines and evidentiary requirements[2].
How-To
- Collect evidence: assemble noise log, photos, videos and witness notes.
- Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for remedying the issue.
- If no remedy occurs, prepare a complaint at the district court; attach files and copies.
- Attend the court hearing and present your log and evidence.
Submit evidence in an organised way and keep copies of all correspondence.
Key takeaways
- Document disturbances promptly and precisely.
- Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline.
- Pursue legal steps only if documentation and communication fail.
