Tenant Documents for Home Adjustments in Austria

Many tenants in Austria sometimes need structural or practical adjustments so the home becomes accessible and usable. This guide clearly explains which documents and evidence tenants should collect, how to submit an application to the landlord, and which deadlines and rights apply. It covers typical proofs such as medical certificates, cost estimates and photographs, shows how to document conversations, and gives practical tips for communication with landlords and authorities. You will also learn about the role of the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG), which grants or restricts rights, which grants or subsidies may be available, and when legal clarification may be sensible. At the end you will find pointers to official agencies and template documents.

Which documents do you need?

• Medical certificate or attestation (document) showing medical necessity
• Cost estimate or offers from contractors or companies (payment)
• Photos and, if applicable, videos as evidence (photo|video|evidence)
• Correspondence with the landlord: emails, letters, forms and receipts (form|notice)
• Record of appointments and deadlines (calendar|time) with dates and who said what
• Contact lists or powers of attorney if third parties (e.g. relatives or legal representatives) act

How do you submit the application?

Write a short, factual application to the landlord describing the required adjustments, stating the medical necessity and attaching the proposed measures and a cost estimate. Include contact details and set a reasonable deadline for a response. Legal assessment often refers to provisions of the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) and general tenancy law principles.^[1]

Application letter: What to include

• Clear description of the limitation and the requested measures (repair)
• Cost estimate or offer as an attachment (payment)
• Proposed deadline and your contact details for questions (time)
• Reference to enclosed proofs such as certificates or photos (form)

Who to contact in case of dispute?

First try a conversation or mediation. If no agreement is reached, legal steps at the competent district court are possible; in Austria there are procedural rules and appeal routes that can reach the Supreme Court (OGH). Documentation and adherence to deadlines are essential.^[2]

• First contact: call the landlord and then confirm in writing
• Use municipal mediation or advisory services
• If necessary: consider filing a claim at the district court (court)

FAQ

Can the landlord refuse adjustments?

A landlord cannot refuse arbitrarily; assessment depends on cost-benefit, contract terms and the Mietrechtsgesetz. If unsure, seek legal advice or a court expert.^[1]

Who pays for conversions and who bears the costs?

Often minor repairs or temporary measures are the tenant's responsibility; larger structural changes are negotiated case by case. Grants and subsidies may be available and should be checked.^[2]

What if the landlord does not respond?

Send the application by registered mail or use official submission channels; document everything and check JustizOnline forms for court filings or advisory appointments.^[3]

How-To

1. Gather all evidence: certificates, photos and cost estimates (document)
2. Contact the landlord in writing and also by phone to seek an amicable solution (contact)
3. Send the formal application with attachments and a reasonable deadline (file)
4. If no agreement: inform yourself about legal steps and, if necessary, file a claim (court)

Key Takeaways

• Good documentation is the basis for successful applications.
• Written applications with cost estimates make review easier for landlords.
• Try discussion first before considering legal steps.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] RIS – Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
• [2] Justiz.gv.at – Information on procedures
• [3] JustizOnline – Forms and submissions

1. [1] RIS – Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at – Information on procedures
3. [3] JustizOnline – Forms and submissions