Tenant Notice in Austria: Deadlines & Move-Out

If you are a tenant in Austria and must give notice because of a job change or relocation, this step-by-step guide will help. It explains plainly which notice periods apply, how the formal notice should look and how to plan the handover of the apartment. You will learn what is important for reclaiming the deposit, which documents and photos serve as evidence, and how to handle potential replacement tenants or agreements with the landlord. The guidance follows Austrian tenancy law and offers practical checklists so you can meet deadlines, avoid disputes and make the return as smooth as possible. Additionally we explain how to secure written proof of notice, which deadlines apply to fixed-term leases and when court steps may become necessary.

Notice Periods

Statutory or contractual notice periods can vary. Check your lease carefully.^[1]

• Ordinary notice: in many cases 1–3 months notice (deadline).
• Fixed-term leases: often no ordinary right of termination; check special rules (deadline).
• Special terminations for job relocation or forced moves: respect contractual agreements (deadline).

Formal Requirements for Notice

Form and delivery are important for an effective notice; keep evidence.^[2]

• Details: include name, address, lease references and exact termination date (form).
• Signature: the notice must be signed by the tenant(s) (form).
• Proof of delivery: send registered mail or hand over personally with a receipt (form).

Handover and Deposit

Schedule the handover in good time, document condition thoroughly and clarify deposit matters.^[3]

• Return the apartment broom-clean (move-out) and hand over keys on time.
• Deposit: clarify deadlines and permissible deductions, agree on repayment arrangements (deposit).
• Document condition: take photos, note dates and witnesses, prepare a handover protocol (evidence).

Replacement Tenants and Special Cases

If you must leave early, talk to the landlord about replacement tenants or termination agreements.

• Contact the landlord early and record agreements in writing (call).
• Finding a replacement tenant can be a quick solution; check legal and credit requirements (move-out).
• In disputes: get information and, if needed, contact the district court or mediation services (court).

Key Points

• Observe deadlines and clearly state the termination date (deadline).
• Secure evidence: photos, protocols and receipts (evidence).
• Submit the notice in writing, signed, and keep proof of delivery (form).

FAQ

When can I, as a tenant, give notice because of a job or relocation?

You can give notice if your lease allows ordinary termination or if contractual exit clauses apply; check deadlines and the required written form.

Does the notice always have to be in writing?

Yes, the notice should be in writing and signed; delivery proofs such as registered mail are recommended.

How do I get my deposit back?

After the handover permissible deductions are calculated; document any damage and request a written settlement with a deadline.

How-To

1. Check lease and deadlines carefully and note the valid termination date (deadline).
2. Draft the written notice including all relevant information and sign it (form).
3. Deliver the notice with proof (registered mail or personal handover) and keep the proof (form).
4. Plan the handover: take photos, create a protocol and hand over keys (move-out).

Help and Support

• [1] RIS — Legal Information System of the Federation
• [2] Justiz.gv.at — Court and procedure information
• [3] JustizOnline — e-forms and services

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1. [1] RIS — Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at — Gerichts- und Verfahrensinformationen
3. [3] JustizOnline — e-Formulare und Zustellungen