Tenant Rights Austria: Rent incl. Utilities & Internet
As a tenant in Austria you often face questions: What does rent that includes operating costs, heating or internet actually mean, who pays for repairs, and what deadlines apply for terminations or rent increases? This guide explains your basic rights and duties in plain language, describes common problems like unclear statements or lack of heating, and shows concrete steps so you can report defects, review a rent adjustment or defend yourself against a threatened termination. You will get practical tips on documentation, deadlines and where to find official help. At the end you will find frequently asked questions, a step-by-step guide and official contact points in Austria. Read on for templates and links.
What does "rent included" mean?
If the lease states that rent includes operating costs, heating or internet, this means certain services are already included in the total rent. Which services are included depends on the contract; flat-rate agreements are possible but not unlimited. Tenancy law in Austria regulates obligations and protections for tenants and landlords.[1]
Key tenant rights and duties
- Rent: The agreed total rent must be clearly stated in the lease and may only be increased according to permitted rules.
- Repairs: The landlord is generally responsible for urgent defects unless otherwise agreed.
- Statements: Operating cost statements must be comprehensible; request receipts if something is unclear.
- Entry: Landlords must announce appointments and may not enter unannounced.
Repairs and reporting defects
For defects such as no heating or water damage, report the defect immediately in writing and request repair within a reasonable period. Document defects with photos and witnesses, and send the defect notice by registered mail or electronically with confirmation of receipt if possible.[2]
- Documentation: Take photos, note dates and describe the defect.
- Defect notice: Send in writing and set a deadline.
- Emergency repairs: Act immediately if there is a danger to health or the apartment and keep receipts.
Termination, eviction and protection
Tenants often enjoy protection against termination; formal requirements and deadlines must be observed. If judicial termination is necessary, certain formalities must be followed and deadlines met, otherwise the termination is often ineffective.[1]
- Deadlines: Respond within the specified timeframe to official notifications.
- Court proceedings: If necessary, bring the matter before the district court.
What to do in a dispute with the landlord?
Try to resolve matters amicably first: send a written request, set a deadline and, if necessary, seek mediation through tenant protection organizations. If that fails, collect evidence and file a claim at the competent court. Official forms are available via JustizOnline.[2]
- Advice: Contact local tenant associations or legal advice services.
- Court: File a claim or application with the competent district court.
FAQ
- What can I do if heating costs are not paid?
- First notify the landlord in writing and set a deadline; in case of danger contact the authorities or seek legal advice.
- Can the landlord enter the apartment without notice?
- No, the landlord must announce an appointment and has no general right of entry.
- How do I check an operating cost statement?
- Request receipts and compare items with the lease; seek expert help if unclear.
How-To
- Step 1: Document the defect: create photos, dates and a description.
- Step 2: Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a reasonable deadline.
- Step 3: If there is no response, seek advice from tenant protection or a lawyer.
- Step 4: File a claim or application at the competent district court if necessary.
Help and Support
- RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- Federal Ministry of Justice
- JustizOnline - Court Forms
