Tenant documents for applications in Austria

As a tenant in Austria, you may often wonder which documents you need to prepare for an official application. Whether you file a rent reduction request, report a repair, or submit a timely termination: the right documentation often determines the success and speed of the process. In this guide we explain clearly and practically which proofs landlords and courts expect, how to collect receipts and meet deadlines, and which forms and photos are useful. We provide checklists, examples of typical cases and advice on when to seek help from a tenant protection organization or the district court. This helps you avoid mistakes and protect your rights as a tenant in Austria.

Which documents you need

For most applications and concerns you should prepare a complete folder with relevant documents. Typically this includes:

• Identification (passport, ID card, registration certificate)
• Lease agreement and any addenda
• Payment receipts for rent and deposit
• Photos with dates of the damages
• Written correspondence with the landlord
• Cost estimates or invoices for repairs
• Handover protocols and inventory lists

Deadlines and form

Many claims are tied to deadlines and formal requirements. Rights and obligations are regulated in the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG §3).^[1] Make sure to report defects in writing, set clear deadlines, and document any extensions or responses.

If the landlord does not respond or refuses to fix defects, legal steps may be necessary. Many tenancy disputes are handled by the district court.^[2]

FAQ

Which documents do I need for a rent reduction?

Lease agreement, payment receipts, photos of defects, written correspondence with the landlord, and possibly cost estimates or expert reports.

How do I properly document damages?

Photograph damages with dates, keep a defect list and retain emails or letters as proof.

Where can I turn if the landlord does not respond?

Contact a tenant protection organization or, if necessary, the district court to clarify and enforce your claims.

How-To

1. Collect the lease, payment receipts and other evidence.
2. Take dated photos of damages.
3. Write a formal request to the landlord with a deadline.
4. Attach cost estimates or repair offers.
5. If the landlord does not respond, prepare possible proceedings at the district court.^[2]

Help and Support

• Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) in RIS
• Information on courts and jurisdictions (Justiz)
• JustizOnline: forms and court submissions

1. [1] RIS - Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - information on courts