Sample Letter for Tenants: Allocations & Waitlists Austria

Municipal & cooperative housing 3 min read · published September 10, 2025

This sample letter helps tenants in Austria to submit a formal request for allocation of municipal housing or to be added to waitlists. It clearly explains which details landlords or housing cooperatives need, which deadlines apply and which proofs are useful. The template is practical and shows how to phrase requests politely and with legal clarity, without requiring legal jargon. You will also find notes on possible cost-rent, documentation of housing need and steps to take if allocation problems arise. The guide is aimed at tenants seeking support with deadlines, forms and communication with municipalities or cooperatives. It also explains which documents are common and how to state an objection calmly.

Rights and obligations for allocation

For allocation of municipal or cooperative housing, statutory and local rules apply; in case of doubt the Mietrechtsgesetz is decisive[1]. Allocation policies usually set order and required proofs, such as income statements or declarations of housing need.

In most cases, the MRG and local allocation rules determine the order.

Key information for the sample letter

  • Mention deadlines and dates, such as desired move-in date.
  • Attach concrete proofs (employment contract, confirmation of housing need).
  • Name any specific form or application if a template exists.
  • Provide information about rent/cost-rent and deposit if relevant.
  • Include a contact for questions (phone, email).
Keep copies of all documents and the sent letter.

How to phrase the sample letter

Write briefly and factually: give your name, current address, desired apartment or size, reasons for the housing need and the enclosed proofs. Close with a clear request for confirmation of receipt and a contact option.

  • Stay concise and polite; avoid aggressive language.
  • List and number all attachments so the recipient can match them easily.
  • Point out deadlines or ask for an answer by a specific date.
Detailed documentation increases your chances in allocation procedures.

What to do in case of rejection or long waitlists

If you receive a rejection or face a long waiting period, request a written justification and review it. In many cases an objection is possible; observe deadlines and submit additional proofs. If a formal procedure becomes necessary, legal options can be considered.

  • File an objection or inquiry within the stated deadline.
  • Submit further evidence that supports your need.
  • If oral information is unclear, request a written decision.
Respond to rejections in time, otherwise legal rights may lapse.

FAQ

What should the sample letter include?
Answer: Name, contact details, clear description of housing need, desired move-in date, list of enclosed proofs and a polite request for confirmation of receipt.
Which deadlines are important?
Answer: Deadlines for submitting applications, deadlines for objections and the response times of the authority. These are usually listed in allocation guidelines or in the rejection letter.
Where do I send the sample letter?
Answer: To the responsible municipality, housing cooperative or the named allocation office; check public contact details and send copies by email or by registered mail if possible.

How-To

  1. Collect all required proofs (employment contract, registration certificate, income statements).
  2. Complete the sample letter and clearly list attachments.
  3. Send the letter to the responsible office and request a confirmation of receipt.
  4. Note deadlines for possible objections and respond on time.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
  2. [2] JustizOnline - Forms and e‑services
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Austria

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.