Tenant Costs for Eviction & Notice in Austria
Many tenants in Austria face open questions when dealing with notice protection or potential eviction: who pays costs for eviction, lawyer fees or repairs? This article explains in practical terms which obligations landlords and tenants have under the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG), how deadlines and judicial termination work and which steps you as a tenant should take now. We describe which costs are usually borne by the landlord, when tenants are responsible for damage or repairs, and how to collect evidence and meet deadlines. The goal is that you know your rights, make timely decisions and resolve conflicts with as little cost as possible. Read the step-by-step guide below.
What to do with notice and eviction?
If you receive a notice or an eviction threat, first check the deadlines and the form of service. Information on the Mietrechtsgesetz is available in RIS[1] and required court forms can be accessed via JustizOnline[2].
- Check and note deadlines.
- Collect evidence: photos, messages and invoices.
- Contact the landlord and report defects in writing.
- Review judicial termination and required forms.
Who pays costs?
Under the MRG, the landlord often bears the costs for essential maintenance and repairs, unless the lease provides otherwise. Minor repairs or damage caused by improper use may be charged to the tenant[1]. Court costs and eviction expenses follow separate rules and usually require a court decision and the appropriate applications[2].
FAQ
- Can the landlord evict me immediately?
- No. Eviction generally requires court proceedings and a legally binding decision.
- Who pays repairs in the rental apartment?
- Basic maintenance is usually the landlord's responsibility; minor cosmetic repairs may fall to tenants.
- What should I do if a notice is unlawful?
- Object in writing, collect evidence and check deadlines for legal challenge.
How-To
- Collect documents and evidence.
- Note important deadlines.
- Contact the landlord and report defects.
- Complete and submit required forms.
- Prepare for court dates and organize your documents.
Help and Support
- RIS: Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) and forms
- Justiz.gv.at: information for tenants and forms
- JustizOnline: judicial termination and e-forms
