Quiet Hours, Noise Logs & Tenant Rights in Austria

As a tenant in Austria it is important to know quiet hours and to act systematically in case of repeated noise. This article explains how to keep a noise log, which rules apply in house rules and tenancy law, and which steps help when conversations with neighbours are not enough. I describe practical tips for collecting evidence, deadlines for formal complaints and when court or mediation make sense. The aim is to give you clear options so you can protect your living quality, de-escalate conflicts and use legal possibilities without taking unnecessary risks. I also name helpful contact points and formal steps, including deadlines and evidence methods relevant in Austria.

What are quiet hours and why they matter

Quiet hours are periods during which avoidable noise is prohibited or restricted. They are often anchored in the house rules, the tenancy agreement or local custom and serve to protect residential peace.

• weekday evenings (often 20:00–22:00)
• night hours (commonly 22:00–06:00)
• weekend and midday rest (regionally different)

Noise log: what to document

A careful noise log is often the basis for a successful complaint or lawsuit. Record date, time, duration and type of noise as well as possible witnesses.

• date and exact time of the incident
• description of the noise source and duration
• photos or audio recordings, if safe and permitted
• names of witnesses and their contact details, if available
• previous complaints or reports to the landlord documented

If talks are not enough: formal steps

First have a calm talk with the person responsible and document it. If there is no improvement, send a written request and set a deadline. Legal bases such as the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) regulate the rights and duties of tenants and landlords.^[1] For court steps or submitting forms use JustizOnline or consult the district courts.^[2]

• send a written request to the offender and the landlord
• set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 7–14 days) and announce consequences
• contact landlord or property management and demand remediation
• if disturbances persist, consider complaint to the district court or mediation services

FAQ

When do quiet hours apply in a residential building?

Quiet hours arise from house rules, the tenancy agreement or local custom and usually concern evening and night times.

Is a noise log sufficient as evidence?

A carefully kept noise log is important and is often considered strong evidence by courts and authorities, especially combined with recordings and witnesses.

When should I involve the district court?

If talks, written requests and involving the landlord do not lead to improvement, the district court can be an appropriate next step.

How-To

1. Observe and immediately note date and time
2. Document type of noise, duration and intensity
3. Collect witnesses and, if possible, speak to neighbours
4. Send a written request with a deadline to the offender and landlord
5. Wait the deadline and continue to document further incidents
6. If no remedy occurs, consider filing a complaint at the district court

Help and Support / Resources

• RIS - Legal database and information
• Justiz.gv.at – Court information
• JustizOnline – e-forms and submissions

1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] JustizOnline - Electronic submissions