Tenant Guide: Leaks & Mold in Austria
As a tenant in Austria you may sometimes face water damage or mold that affects your living quality and health. This guide explains clearly and practically what rights tenants have, when landlords are responsible for repairs, and how to report leaks, document mold, and meet deadlines. I describe concrete steps for evidence preservation, contacting property management, and controlled action if repairs are refused. The language is simple so you can quickly see which forms and steps matter in court or with authorities. At the end you will find a short how‑to and official links to statutes and forms.
What to do with a leak?
For an acute leak, start with damage limitation and evidence preservation. Notify the landlord in writing and request a repair within a reasonable deadline. In many cases tenancy law imposes landlord obligations, especially under the MRG.[1]
- Notify the landlord in writing (notice) and set a clear deadline.
- Carry out temporary measures and request a repair (repair).
- Collect photos, videos and meter readings as evidence.
- Contact building technicians or a hotline immediately if electricity or health is at risk.
Mold: document and act
Mold often follows moisture damage and can affect health. Document mold areas with photos and describe smell, spread and possible causes. Request a professional assessment and cleaning; for complex issues the landlord may be obliged to arrange remediation.
- Photograph mold areas and record the discovery date.
- Suggest a specialist for remediation and insist on proper repair.
- Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline (within).
If the landlord does not respond
If the landlord ignores you, keep collecting evidence and send a final reminder. If there is still no response, court action at the district court may be necessary or advice from tenant organizations; official forms are available via JustizOnline.[2]
FAQ
- Who pays repair costs for a leak?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for substantial repairs unless the tenant caused the damage by gross negligence. When in doubt, consult the MRG.[1]
- Do I have to report mold immediately?
- Yes, report mold promptly in writing and document infestation and observations with photos and dates.
- What deadlines apply before I can arrange repairs myself?
- Set a reasonable deadline in your defect notice; only after an unsuccessful lapse may self-arranged repairs be justified. Seek legal advice if unsure.
How-To
- Secure evidence: take photos, videos and written notes.
- Send a formal defect notice to the landlord (notice) with a deadline.
- Contact a tenant association or expert for advice if needed.
- Prepare documents for the district court or use JustizOnline forms where applicable.
Help and Support
- RIS - Statutes (MRG) and explanations
- Justiz.gv.at – court and procedure information
- JustizOnline – forms and e‑services
