Report Changes on Time: Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria it is important to report changes that affect your rental agreement, living situation or habitability in good time. These include address changes, permanent subletting, significant repair needs or changes to the apartment that require consent. Reporting correctly helps meet deadlines, avoid misunderstandings and protect your rights — for example with landlords, rent matters or when repairs are necessary. This article explains clearly which changes should typically be reported, which evidence is useful and which deadlines to watch so you can act confidently and well informed in Austria. At the end you will find practical steps, templates and guidance on documentation as well as links to official Austrian authorities.
Which changes should tenants report?
- Update address and contact details.
- Report permanent subletting or new subtenants.
- Structural changes or fittings that require approval.
- Report ongoing repair needs or defects.
- Changes in household composition (cohabitants).
Send changes in writing and keep the confirmation.
Deadlines and evidence
Deadlines depend on the specific case and your rental contract. Some reports should be made "immediately", others follow contractually set timeframes. Collect relevant evidence such as dated photos, written notices and handover records so you can prove deadlines were met.
- Deadlines: By when changes must be reported.
- Evidence: Photos, written agreements and handover records.
- Formal reporting methods: Registered mail or email with delivery confirmation.
Respond to formal letters within stated deadlines to avoid legal disadvantages.
What to do about repairs and maintenance duties?
If repairs are necessary, report the defect to the landlord immediately. Under the Austrian Tenancy Law (MRG) landlords have certain maintenance and repair duties.[1]
- Report defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy.
- Document defects: photos, dates and precise descriptions.
- Contact the landlord and explore amicable solutions.
- If there is no response, consider legal steps and consult available forms.[2]
Well documented defects improve your chances of enforcing your rights.
FAQ
- When is a report considered "on time"?
- A report is on time if it is made promptly after discovering the relevant fact and complies with contractual or legal deadlines.
- Which evidence helps with defects?
- Dated photos, written defect notices, handover records and communication logs are useful evidence.
- What can I do if the landlord does not respond?
- Send another written request, set a clear deadline; if there is no response consider legal action or seek advice from a tenants' organization.
How-To
- Check: Read the lease and any deadlines.
- Write: Prepare a dated written notice.
- Send: Use registered mail or email with delivery confirmation.
- Document: Collect photos, records and communication; escalate if necessary.
