Tenant FAQ: Energy, Heating & Hot Water in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, energy, heating and hot water issues often present practical and legal challenges. They concern utility bills, sudden heating failures and the question of which costs the landlord must bear. This guide explains in plain language which rights tenants have, how to report heating failures, which documentation is important and when to set deadlines. It refers to key legal bases and provides concrete steps to demand repairs or review cost allocations. If you are facing rising energy costs, lack of hot water or unclear bills, you will find practical tips and guidance here on how to proceed in Austria. The information is general and does not replace individual legal advice. Read the following sections to find concrete steps and contacts.
Energy, Heating and Hot Water: Rights and Obligations
Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the rental unit in a usable condition; this often includes functioning heating and hot water supply. Which costs may be passed on is primarily governed by tenancy law and associated regulations.[1] Document defects immediately and inform the landlord in writing with a set deadline.
- Record meter readings and save photos.
- Report defects in writing and set a clear deadline.
- Check the heating cost statement and submit queries in writing.
- If the landlord refuses, set deadlines and consider legal action.
If the heating fails, acting quickly and documenting everything is important: note date, time, communication and steps taken. Keep invoices, photos and all correspondence.
FAQ
- Who pays the heating costs?
- Who bears the heating costs depends on the lease and legal provisions. Heating costs are often allocated as operating costs if agreed in the contract.
- What to do in case of a heating failure?
- Report defects in writing, set a reasonable deadline and, if necessary, demand repair by a specialist company. Document everything and, if required, consider legal steps.
- Can the landlord bill hot water costs separately?
- Yes, separate billing is possible if contractual or legal requirements are met and consumption recording is available.
- What deadlines apply to defect notifications?
- There is no uniform deadline; set a clear, reasonable deadline in the defect notice (e.g. 7–14 days for heating failure) and refer to possible legal steps if not met.
How-To
- Check your lease for provisions on heating and hot water.
- Document the defect (photos, date, time, witnesses).
- Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for remedy.
- If necessary, request a professional repair or replacement.
- If there is no response, consider legal steps at the district court or use available online forms.[2]
Help and Support
- RIS: Legal texts and regulations
- Justiz.gv.at: Information and contacts
- JustizOnline: Forms and e‑services
