Template Letter: Short-Term Rental for Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, your landlord may announce or carry out short-term or holiday rentals in the building. This text explains what rights and obligations you have as a tenant, how to formulate objections in writing and which deadlines you must observe. I show which documents are useful, how to document defects and disturbances and when legal action may become necessary. The aim is a clear, practical template letter and a step-by-step guide so you can represent your interests factually and with legal certainty. The information is oriented to Austrian law and practical recommendations for residential tenants.
What applies to short-term/holiday rentals?
Short-term or holiday rentals can affect the quality of living and are subject to contractual rules as well as the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG).[1] Whether and to what extent this is permitted depends on your lease and the specific circumstances. It is important to check subletting rules, any required permits and neighbor law.
Rights and obligations as a tenant
As a tenant you are entitled to use the apartment without unreasonable disturbances; at the same time you should observe contractual obligations. Typical courses of action include:
- Document disturbances with photos, date and time.
- Check your lease for clauses on subletting or consent requirements.
- Observe deadlines for objections and formal notices.
- File a written objection and request an acknowledgement of receipt.
- Report necessary repairs if use is impaired.
- Prepare documents for possible court clarification.
Template Letter (Example)
Sender: [Your Name], [Address]
Date: [Date]
Subject: Objection to short-term/holiday rental in the apartment [Address]
Dear [Landlord Name],
I hereby object to the announced short-term/holiday rental of the above apartment, as this affects my quality of living and is not covered by the lease. Please provide the basis for the rental, send me notices and permits in writing and confirm that undisturbed use will be ensured.
I request that you respond within 14 days and, if necessary, propose remedial measures. If you do not respond, I reserve the right to take further legal steps.
Yours sincerely
[Signature]
Forms for court proceedings are available on JustizOnline.[2]
FAQ
- Can the landlord rent out short-term without my consent?
- Not necessarily; it usually depends on the lease and the disturbances associated with the use. Without appropriate permission, a significant interference may exist.
- Which evidence is important?
- Photos, date records, witnesses and written communication are crucial to prove disturbances.
- When should I consider legal action?
- If disturbances persist, the landlord does not react and your use of the dwelling is significantly impaired, you should consider legal advice.
How-To
- Collect evidence: photos, dates, times and witnesses.
- Check the lease for subletting rules.
- Send a written objection by registered mail or email with read receipt.
- Set a reasonable deadline for remedy (about 14 days).
- If there is no response: consider legal action at the district court.
- Keep all responses and evidence well organized.
