Report Housing Discrimination in Austria for Tenants
Many tenants in Austria experience disadvantages during the housing search — for example because of origin, gender, family status, or disability. If you as a tenant or home-seeker find that a viewing was refused, a lease was offered with disadvantages, or an advertisement was treated differently, rights under equal treatment law and the tenancy law may be relevant. This text explains in clear language when discrimination can occur, which evidence is helpful and which authorities or courts you can contact. It describes practical steps, contacts and deadlines so that as a tenant in Austria you know how to react and file a complaint. The guide is practical and avoids legal jargon.
When is discrimination present?
Discrimination can occur directly or indirectly. Direct discrimination occurs when a person is treated worse because of a protected characteristic (e.g. origin, gender, family, disability). Indirect discrimination can arise when neutral rules systematically disadvantage certain groups.
- Viewing (inspect) refused because of origin or religion.
- Unequal treatment regarding rent, deposit or additional payments (rent, deposit).
- Harassing requirements or bans based on family, disability or gender.
- Other applicants receive better conditions without objective reasons.
Evidence and documentation
Collect everything that supports the suspicion: messages, emails, ads, photos of notices or offers, names and dates of conversations, and witnesses. Note the content of phone calls immediately after the conversation. Statutory rules such as the tenancy law may be relevant when assessing your claims [1].
- Photos or screenshots of ads and messages.
- Email correspondence and SMS as evidence.
- Contact names, date, time and content of conversations.
- Receipts for requested payments or deposits.
FAQ
- When should I report discrimination?
- Report discrimination as soon as you notice clear indications or repeated patterns; documentation helps any complaint.
- Who can I contact?
- You can ask the landlord for a written explanation, contact advisory services, or file a complaint with the district court or relevant authorities [2].
- What deadlines apply?
- Deadlines depend on the specific legal path; act promptly on requests and legal notifications to avoid missing deadlines.
How-To
- Collect evidence: document messages, photos, ads and witnesses.
- Request a written statement from the landlord and ask for fair treatment.
- Consider filing a complaint with the district court or seeking mediation; legal advice can help [2].
- Use online forms and filing options via JustizOnline for court proceedings if applicable [3].
Key Takeaways
- Collect relevant evidence promptly and systematically.
- Request written explanations from the landlord to create records.
- Inform yourself about court and procedural options before taking legal steps.
Help and Support / Resources
- RIS – Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- Justiz.gv.at – Information about courts
- JustizOnline – electronic forms and submissions
