Tenant Rights: Access to Receipts & Leases in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, you have the right to request access to receipts and lease documents so you can verify payments, operating costs and contract terms. This article explains in plain language which documents you may request, how to write a formal request, which deadlines typically apply and what steps to take if landlords do not cooperate. You will receive practical tips for documentation, notes on common dispute topics such as operating cost statements and deposit issues, and guidance on judicial and extrajudicial options. By the end you will know which information matters, where to find official forms and how to prepare step by step to enforce your rights more effectively. Relevant contacts and deadlines are also mentioned. Read on for concrete sample letters and process recommendations.
What can tenants request?
In principle, tenants can request access to all receipts and documents relevant to rent and operating cost accounting. This includes receipts for payments, invoices and the lease contract folder.
- Receipts (receipts) for payments made and operating cost statements.
- Deposit receipts (deposit) and proof of repayments.
- Copy of the signed lease or sublease agreements (contract copy).
- Receipts for individual invoices that belong to a statement.
Keep all payment receipts organized and stored safely.
How do I write a request?
Write a short written request by email or registered mail. Specify exactly which documents you want and set a deadline for delivery.
- Draft a short letter with date and signature (form).
- Set a clear deadline of e.g. 14 days (deadline).
- Request a reply by email or phone and note any call times (contact).
Respond to legal letters within deadlines to avoid disadvantages.
Deadlines and landlord responses
There is no single statutory deadline for every access request, but a reasonable period is usually two weeks. If the landlord does not respond, make a record and consider forwarding the matter to the appropriate authorities.[1]
Evidence and documentation
Collect all relevant evidence in chronological order: bank statements, receipts, emails and photos. Each page should be dated with a short note of context.
- Photos or scans of invoices and receipts (evidence).
- Bank statements showing rent payments (rent, payment).
- Correspondence with the landlord and any defect notifications (notice, form).
Detailed documentation increases your chances in disputes.
If the landlord does not cooperate
If access is refused, send a reminder with a short deadline and state that you will consider legal steps. Document every contact and consider mediation or filing a case at the district court.[2]
Key action steps
- Send a written request and set a deadline.
- Collect receipts and order them chronologically.
- Consider legal advice or court action if refusal continues.
FAQ
- Can I request copies of all receipts?
- Yes, you can request copies of the relevant receipts to review operating costs and payments.
- What is a usual deadline for a response?
- A reasonable deadline is usually 14 days; record the deadline in your letter.
- Where can I turn if the landlord does not respond?
- You can contact mediation bodies, tenant associations or the district court to have your case reviewed.[3]
How-To
- Step 1: Draft a short letter listing the requested documents.
- Step 2: Set a deadline (e.g. 14 days) and send the letter by email and registered mail.
- Step 3: Gather all receipts, bank statements and correspondence chronologically.
- Step 4: If necessary, seek mediation or file a case at the district court.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System (laws)
- [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information on courts and procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - Forms and electronic procedures
