Tenant Rights: Energy Certificate in Austria
Many tenants in Austria face questions when it comes to the energy certificate for their apartment. This guide explains in clear language which duties landlords have, which rights tenants can assert and which steps make sense if the certificate is missing or contains incorrect information. You will learn when proof may be requested, how to document defects and which deadlines apply for legal steps. If you are unsure how the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) should be applied, you can find the legal texts online[1] and information about procedures and forms at justice offices.[2]
What is an energy certificate?
The energy certificate provides information about the energy condition of a building or apartment and shows the expected heating energy demand. It is a written statement that must be presented by the landlord when required by law or when energy efficiency information is requested. Issuance and presentation can follow requirements from the MRG and other regulations.[1]
What rights do tenants have in Austria?
Tenants have the right to request access to relevant documents and to document defects that affect energy consumption. In case of problems, the following steps can help enforce your rights:
- Request the energy certificate from the landlord (Form) and demand delivery.
- If there are energy-related defects, request repairs or maintenance (Repair).
- Collect evidence: photos, measurements, and correspondence as proof (Evidence).
- Arrange access and inspections: visits only after notice and with justification (Entry).
- If there is no response, consider legal steps and watch deadlines (Court).
What to do if the energy certificate is missing or incorrect?
If the energy certificate is missing or contains incorrect information, a graduated approach is recommended: first request in writing from the landlord, set a deadline, and if there is no response seek legal advice. Forms for court proceedings are available online and can help meet dates and deadlines.[3]
- Request the energy certificate from the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline (Contact).
- Collect evidence and send a formal request with a deadline by registered mail (Form).
- If there is no answer: seek advice from the district court or legal counsel and review procedures (Court).
FAQ
- Who must provide the energy certificate?
- In many cases the landlord is obliged to present it; details depend on legal provisions and individual cases.[1]
- Can I reduce the rent if the certificate is missing?
- A rent reduction is possible if the absence or incorrect information affects usability or the assessment of operating costs; the specific evaluation depends on the individual case.
- Where do I turn for formal steps?
- For judicial terminations and forms use the justice offices and JustizOnline; there you will find official forms and procedure guidance.[3]
How-To
- Request the energy certificate from the landlord in writing and set a clear deadline (Form).
- Collect evidence: photos, meter readings and correspondence as proof (Evidence).
- Contact the appropriate advisory service or legal counsel for tenants (Contact).
- If necessary, use forms for court proceedings and file them within deadlines (Court).
Key Takeaways
- The energy certificate shows the apartment’s energy condition.
- Documentation and written requests strengthen your position.
- If there is no response, consider legal options.
