Tenant Complaint: Internet, TV & Parking in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, it can be frustrating when internet, TV service or an assigned parking space does not work as agreed. This text explains in plain language how to file a formal complaint, which deadlines and proofs are important, and when legal action may be appropriate. You will receive concrete steps for talking to the property management, collecting evidence and sending the correct letters. It also explains which authorities and courts may be involved and what tenant protections you have. The goal is to give you confidence in enforcing your claims — without legal jargon. At the end you will find a step-by-step guide to submitting complaints and useful authority contacts.
When is a complaint worthwhile?
You should complain if the service (internet/TV) fails repeatedly, the agreed bandwidth is not provided, or an assigned parking space is unusable. First check your lease and any addenda; many rules on rental services and operating costs are governed by tenancy law and the general civil code.[1]
- Contact the property manager or landlord in writing first and describe the problem clearly with dates.
- Collect evidence: screenshots, measurement logs, photos of the parking space or correspondence with the provider.
- Request a deadline for remedy and ask for written confirmation.
- Set a reasonable remedy deadline and, if necessary, announce claims for rent reduction or damages.
Keep all receipts and correspondence organized and stored safely.
How to write an objection and which deadlines apply
A formal objection should be clear, factual and dated. State the defect, since when it exists, what effects it has and what remedy you expect. Send the letter by registered mail or by email with read receipt. If there is no response, you can have the complaint reviewed by the district court or take formal steps.[2]
- Draft a clear demand (e.g. remedy within 14 days).
- Attach evidence or list it in the letter.
- Note deadlines and respond within the set time.
Respond to deadline notices promptly to preserve your rights.
Evidence and documentation
Good documentation increases your chances: log outages (date, time, duration), save invoices and contracts, and keep a short defect log. For parking issues, photos with timestamps are particularly helpful.
- Save measurement data, screenshots and photos in an organized way.
- Keep copies of contracts and addenda.
- Note phone calls: date, contact person and content.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
FAQ
- How do I file a complaint?
- Send a formal, dated letter to the landlord or management, attach evidence and set a remedy deadline.
- Can I reduce the rent if internet or parking is missing?
- Under certain conditions a rent reduction is possible; document the defect and inform the landlord in writing.
- Where can I turn if the landlord does not respond?
- If the management does not respond, you can have the matter reviewed by the district court to see whether legal action is appropriate.[2]
How-To
- Describe the problem in writing and date it.
- Collect and organize evidence (screenshots, photos, contracts).
- Set a clear remedy deadline.
- If there is no response, seek legal advice or contact the district court.
- Consider rent reduction or damages and document every step.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS — Austrian Legal Information System
- [2] Justice — Information on Courts
- [3] JustizOnline — Forms and E‑Government
