Short-term Rent Deadlines: Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria it is important to know deadlines for short-term rentals clearly. Whether termination periods, reporting deadlines for rent or deadlines for repair requests — missing them can quickly lead to legal disadvantages. This guide explains in plain language which deadlines apply to fixed-term or temporary leases, how to calculate and document deadlines and which formal requirements you must observe. We outline practical steps on how to serve formal letters correctly, secure evidence and which authorities to contact if in doubt so you can protect your rights and avoid unnecessary costs. Concrete examples, deadline formulas and templates show you how to calculate deadlines correctly and avoid missing them. Where necessary we point to relevant legal sources and authorities.[1]
Key deadlines for short-term rentals
For short-term rentals some deadlines are particularly relevant. Note that fixed-term contracts and holiday rentals may have special rules; always check the specific contract terms.
- Termination periods: Check whether your contract has a fixed term or specific termination rules.
- Formal requirements: Some notifications must be in writing and properly delivered.
- Deposit deadlines: Find out when the deposit must be returned and what deductions are allowed.
- Repair deadlines: Report defects promptly so time limits for repairs or rent reductions start to run.
How to calculate and prove deadlines
Deadlines are usually counted in calendar days unless the contract specifies business days or another rule. For postal delivery deadlines often start on the day of delivery; for electronic delivery the receipt date applies. Keep a date-and-evidence log for every notification, including photos, screenshots and delivery confirmations.
- Collect evidence: Keep invoices, photos of defects and correspondence.
- Note deadlines: Record start and end dates for each deadline.
- Prove delivery: Use registered mail or delivery confirmation.
Practical steps if you miss a deadline
If you miss a deadline, quickly check for possible extension periods or reinstatement options. Sometimes an immediate message to the landlord asking for remedy is sufficient; other times legal advice or filing an appeal is necessary.[2]
- Contact landlord or manager in writing and propose a solution.
- If facing eviction, seek legal advice promptly.
- Provide evidence: Show proof of contact attempts and reasons for the delay.
Formulations and templates
Use clear, dated letters. State the facts, the legal consequence you seek (e.g. repair deadlines, rent reduction or deposit return) and a concrete deadline for response. Phrase your communication politely but firmly and send it preferably with proof of delivery.
FAQ
- Which deadline applies to a short fixed-term lease?
- The contractually agreed term is decisive; if a fixed-term contract ends automatically, termination is usually not required.
- How long does the landlord have to make repairs?
- There is no single statutory deadline; urgent defects must be remedied without delay and minor defects within a reasonable period.
- What to do if the deposit is not returned?
- Request a written settlement and return of the deposit and set a deadline; if there is no response, court action may be necessary.
How-To
- Check the deadline: Read the contract and note relevant deadlines.
- Prepare a letter: Clearly state your request with a deadline.
- Secure delivery: Send by registered mail or with delivery confirmation.
- If in dispute: Seek legal advice or contact the competent authority.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- [2] Justice - Information on Courts and Procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - Forms and Electronic Filing
