Tenant Deadlines: Heating & Hot Water in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, a failure of heating or hot water can quickly disrupt daily life. This article explains clearly and practically which deadlines apply, how you as a tenant should report a fault and what obligations landlords have under tenancy law. You will read how to collect evidence, set deadlines, when a rent reduction is possible and what court steps may follow. The language remains accessible so you can assert your rights without a legal background. At the end you will find a short action guide and official links to statutes and forms so you can react quickly and securely. If necessary, we also explain the process at the district court and how to use JustizOnline forms.
What are deadlines for faults?
Deadlines for faults indicate how quickly landlords must respond and which steps tenants should take within certain timeframes. For heating or hot water, there is often immediate notification, reasonable deadline setting for remedy, and possible further steps such as rent reduction or court clarification. The Mietrechtsgesetz and Austrian case law are relevant here.[1]
What to do if heating or hot water fails?
Act quickly and document everything. Short-term measures help limit loss of comfort; legal steps require good documentation and clear deadline setting with the landlord.
- Report the fault to the landlord immediately, by phone and additionally in writing (email or letter).
- Set a written deadline: state a specific time period for remedy (e.g. 48 hours) and request confirmation.
- Collect evidence: photos, temperature logs, records of affected days and witnesses.
- Document short-term expenses: replacement heating, repair costs or expenses to prevent damage.
If the landlord does not respond, tenants can consider further rights such as rent reduction, self-remedy with cost reimbursement, or court proceedings at the district court.[3]
Which deadlines are common?
Specific deadlines depend on the individual case: a total failure of heating or hot water requires very prompt action; for minor defects a period of several days may be appropriate. It is also legally relevant whether the defect substantially restricts the habitability of the apartment.
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if there is no heating or hot water?
- Yes, a rent reduction is possible if the usability is significantly impaired. The amount depends on the extent of the defect and should be documented.
- How do I set a deadline correctly?
- Set a clear written deadline with date and time and a short description of the defect and the required remedy. Specify a concrete period (e.g. 48 hours) and request confirmation of receipt.
- Who do I contact for forms or court steps?
- For court steps and electronic forms use JustizOnline; for statutes RIS is the official source.
How-To
- Report in writing: send an email or a registered letter describing the fault and the date.
- Set a deadline: specify a concrete period for remedy (e.g. 48 hours) and announce further steps.
- Collect evidence: photograph outages and note temperature levels or incurred costs.
- If needed, seek help: contact advisory services or prepare documents for the district court.
Help and Support / Resources
- RIS - Legal Information Systems
- Justiz.gv.at - Court Information
- JustizOnline - Forms and Submissions
