Tenant Appeals for Student Housing in Austria
As a tenant of a student apartment in Austria you may face issues such as unlawful rent increases, unresolved repairs or unclear terminations. This guide explains in plain language how to formally file an appeal or lodge a complaint, which deadlines apply and which documents are important. I outline steps for gathering evidence, communicating with the landlord and going to court or mediation, as well as your entitlement to safe living conditions. The advice reflects Austrian tenancy law and practical tips so students and other tenants can understand and assert their rights calmly. You will also learn when to react within which timeframe, how to make logs and photos and where to find official forms. At the end there are practical templates and next-step recommendations.
What is an appeal?
An appeal is a formal response to a landlord's notice, such as a termination, rent increase or house rule sanction. It should clearly explain why you consider the measure unjustified and state concrete demands. Pay attention to legal bases such as the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) and reference specific sections where possible.[1]
Immediate actions
- Check and note deadlines (deadline) and when you must respond.
- Report defects in writing (notice/form) and set a deadline for repair.
- Collect photos, logs and messages as evidence (evidence).
- Contact advisory services or tenant protection (contact/help) for support.
How to gather evidence
Collect methodically: photos with dates, written defect reports, email exchanges and witness statements. Keep a short defect log with date, time and description. Keep payment receipts and handover records.
If the case escalates you will often need forms or a judicial termination; official forms and digital submissions are available via JustizOnline and other authority sites.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I appeal a rent increase in my student apartment?
- Yes. Check the landlord's justification, submit a written appeal within the stated deadline and obtain legal advice if needed.
- What should I do about outstanding repairs?
- Send a written defect notice with a deadline, document the defect and demand repair in writing; consider rent reduction if appropriate.
- When is going to court necessary?
- If out-of-court resolution or mediation fails, deadlines are missed or the landlord does not respond, a lawsuit at the district court may be required.
How-To
- Check deadlines (deadline) immediately and note key dates.
- Draft a written defect notice or statement (notice) and send it, ideally by registered mail.
- Gather evidence (evidence): photos, logs, witness statements and payment proofs.
- Seek advice and check free advisory centres or legal protection options (contact/help).
- Prepare court filing or mediation participation if necessary (court).
Help and Support
- RIS: Laws and legal information
- Ministry of Justice: procedural information
- JustizOnline: forms and submissions
