Tenant Letter for Heating Failure in Austria
If the heating in your rented apartment fails, tenants in Austria have clear rights. It is important to document the defect quickly, inform the landlord in writing and observe deadlines so you can claim rent reduction or enforcement of repairs. This practical guide explains how to draft a legally sound sample letter, which details must not be missing and which deadlines apply. It also describes which proofs are useful, how to appropriately reduce rent and when to involve the district court. Legal terms are explained in plain language so you can act confidently with the landlord. At the end you will find a template letter to adapt and a checklist for evidence.
What to do if the heating fails?
Practical steps help secure your rights: document temperature, duration and photos, inform the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair.
- Document date, time, room temperature and photos as evidence.
- Inform the landlord in writing with a clear description of the defect and a deadline (see sample letter below).
- Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 48–72 hours for heating failure) so the landlord can respond.
- If necessary, arrange temporary measures (e.g. replacement heaters) and keep receipts.
Sample letter: wording example
Use this concise letter to the landlord. Adapt dates, the deadline and descriptions to your situation.
Dear [Landlord Name],
since [Date] the heating in the apartment [Address] has not been functioning properly. Temperature measurements and photos are attached. I request remedy of the defect by no later than [Deadline Date]. If no remedy is made by then, I reserve the right to reduce rent and take further steps.
What to include in the letter
- Full addresses of tenant and landlord and the date.
- Exact description of the defect and attached evidence (photos, measurements).
- Clear deadline for rectification.
- Note on possible rent reduction if no remedy occurs.
Rights: rent reduction and deadlines
If the heating fails you may reduce the rent if living quality is impaired. The amount depends on the case; legal advice can help. Observe the statutory bases and procedural options [1].
- Rent reduction: proportional reduction of rent if use of the dwelling is significantly restricted.
- Deadlines: set a reasonable deadline and document delivery of the letter.
- Court steps: if the landlord does not act, the district court may be competent [2].
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?
- Yes. If the living quality is significantly impaired, rent can be reduced; amount and start depend on the extent of the defect.
- How do I word a deadline correctly in the letter to the landlord?
- Use a specific date or a clear time span (e.g. "no later than 72 hours after receipt") so the demand is verifiable.
- When should I involve the district court?
- If the landlord fails to act despite documented request and deadline, the district court can handle tenancy disputes.
How-To
- Document: collect temperature measurements, photos and timestamps.
- Write: send the sample letter to the landlord and prove receipt.
- Assess: calculate and announce rent reduction if no remedy is provided.
- Next steps: seek legal advice if necessary and involve the district court.
