Tenant Letter: Leak & Mold in Austria

As a tenant in Austria, it is important to know how to respond properly to leaks or mold. This guide explains in plain language what obligations landlords have under tenancy law, which deadlines apply for notifications, and how to document damage. You receive a practical template letter, tips for securing evidence and concrete steps if repairs are not carried out in time. The aim is to give you, as a tenant, reliable steps to protect living quality and health and to enforce your rights.

What to do in case of an acute leak?

If water enters: immediately secure the source, place buckets/containers and take photos. Note the time and extent of the damage and possible damage to belongings.

Inform the landlord immediately in writing by email or letter and request confirmation of receipt. State deadlines for remediation and offer access to the apartment for inspection.

Quick checklist first

• Stop the leak or seal it provisionally, if possible.
• Take photos and document the date as evidence.
• Send written notification to the landlord and set a deadline.

If mold is visible, pay attention to smell, discoloration and affected materials; check for any health complaints.

Evidence and template letter

Documentation strengthens your position: date, photos, witnesses, repair history, cost statements and correspondence. Use the following template letter and adapt names, dates and the deadline.

Template letter (short):

Dear Mr./Ms. [Name], I hereby report a leak/mold in the apartment [address]. Please arrange remediation by [date, e.g. 14 days]. Until remedied, please respond and arrange an appointment. If no response, I reserve the right to take further steps. Sincerely, [Name]

Deadlines and legal steps

Set a reasonable deadline for remediation (often 7–14 days depending on urgency). If the landlord does not react, you can arrange the repair yourself and claim the costs or reduce the rent. In urgent cases, check local district court procedures.^[1]

Important: If you take measures yourself, document every expense and keep receipts. Seek legal advice if the situation remains unclear.

If the landlord does not respond

• Send a reminder letter with a new deadline.
• For dangers: hire an emergency service and document costs.
• If refusal continues: consider legal action at the district court.^[2]

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent if mold is not removed?

Yes, a rent reduction is possible if the habitability of the apartment is impaired; amount and start depend on the individual case.

Do I have to grant the landlord access to the apartment?

Yes, access is usually required for repair measures after prior announcement.

Who pays for mold remediation?

Generally the landlord bears the costs if the defect was not caused by the tenant; if caused by the tenant, cost contributions may arise.

How-To

1. Photograph the damage and note date/time.
2. Send a template letter to the landlord and set a clear deadline.
3. Wait for the landlord's response; hire emergency services in urgent cases.
4. Have repairs carried out or arrange them yourself and document costs.
5. If no response: seek legal advice and consider court steps.

Help and Support

• [1] RIS: Legal Information System of the Republic
• [2] Justice: Information on courts and procedures
• [3] JustizOnline: Electronic forms and services

1. [1] RIS: Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] Justice: District courts and procedural information