Tenant Complaint: Rent incl. utilities in Austria

Tenants in Austria often face questions when rent that includes operating costs, heating or internet suddenly increases or additional charges are demanded. This guide explains clearly what rights you have as a tenant, when an objection makes sense and how a formal complaint to the landlord or authorities proceeds. I describe concrete steps, deadlines and required evidence as well as sample wording for letters. You will learn which documents to collect, how to document receipts and when involving a district court or a tenant protection service makes sense. The goal is to give you clear, practical steps for disputes around rent in Austria. Read on for sample letters and practical tips.

When is it worth filing an objection?

An objection can be worthwhile if the increase is unclear, operating cost statements are missing or services such as heating and internet are suddenly charged separately. First check the lease, the statements and the formal requirements for each increase. The Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) is a common reference for many deadlines and formal requirements^[1], and provisions of the ABGB may also be relevant^[2].

• Observe deadlines (deadline): respond within the stated period to avoid losing rights.
• Check operating costs (rent): request detailed statements and receipts.
• Document defects (repair): photograph damage and report repairs in writing.
• Consider court options (court): if no amicable solution, evaluate the district court^[3].

How to write a complaint?

A complaint should clearly state the date, claim, grounds and a deadline for response. Name exact amounts, refer to evidence and request a corrected statement or reimbursement. Send the letter by registered mail or documented e-mail if possible.

• Draft a clear claim (notice): state amount and deadline in plain language.
• Attach evidence (evidence): include copies of statements, payment receipts and photos.
• Keep contact records (call): inform the landlord by phone and in writing, note dates and contact persons.

FAQ

Can I withhold payment if operating costs are unclear?

You should not hastily withhold full payments. Instead, you can withhold the disputed partial amount reasonably and lodge a written objection while requesting the documents.

How quickly must a landlord respond to a complaint?

There is no uniform response time for every situation; however, observe specific deadlines in statements or contracts and respond within generally reasonable timeframes.

When is going to court sensible?

If landlords do not respond after request or the statement is clearly incorrect, filing in the district court can be sensible. Use mediation services and advisory offers first.

How-To

1. Check deadlines: read the notice carefully and note all stated dates.
2. Draft the complaint: write a short, formal letter with claim and deadline.
3. Collect evidence: compile copies of statements, payment proofs and photos.
4. Inform the landlord: send the complaint documented and keep records of contact attempts.
5. Next steps: if no solution, consider mediation or filing at the district court.

Help and Support

• RIS: Legal Information System of the Republic
• Justice: Information on courts and procedures
• JustizOnline: Forms and electronic services

1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] RIS - Allgemeines Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (ABGB)
3. [3] Justice - Information on district courts