Tenant Rights: Energy Certificate and Rent in Austria

As a tenant in Austria you may often wonder whether an energy certificate affects the amount of rent or whether landlords must present it. This article explains in a clear, easy-to-understand tone what obligations landlords have, when the energy certificate can be relevant for contract design or rent valuation, and what rights tenants have regarding information and defects. You will learn practical steps for inquiries, documentation, and legally secure communication with the landlord, including deadlines and references to official forms and laws in Austria.^[1] Further below you will find a how-to and frequently asked questions with answers.^[2] The language is simple and shows concrete documentation steps so tenants can assert their rights confidently.

What is an energy certificate?

The energy certificate describes a building's energy demand or consumption. It primarily serves to inform about energy characteristics and does not automatically determine the rent. For tenants it is important to know whether a valid certificate exists and what values it shows.

When does the energy certificate affect rent?

In certain cases a poor energy rating can influence rent negotiations or modernization cost allocation. Contract clauses, legal requirements and case law on valuation are decisive.

• For new lettings the certificate can serve as an information basis.
• For modernizations energy savings can be a basis for cost allocation.
• The certificate alone does not create an automatic claim or rent reduction.

Obligation to provide and notification

There are duties to present and keep records depending on the specific legal situation and contract clauses. Check your lease for form requirements and request copies of the certificate if you have not received it.

• Request a copy of the energy certificate in writing.
• Note the transmission date and contact person.
• Keep emails and photos as evidence.

Practical steps for tenants

If you suspect the energy certificate is missing or incorrect, you can follow these steps.

• Step 1: Ask the landlord to present the certificate in writing.
• Step 2: Document defects (photos, meter readings) and save communications.
• Step 3: If unsure, seek legal advice or contact a mediation service.

FAQ

Must the landlord show me the energy certificate?

Yes, the landlord should present the certificate on request or hand over a copy, especially for new lettings.

Can I reduce the rent because of a poor energy certificate?

An energy certificate alone is seldom a direct reason for rent reduction; relevant are concrete defects and their impact on usability.

Where can I find more legal information?

Official legal sources and forms are available at RIS and JustizOnline; use these sources for binding texts and applications.^[1]

How-To

1. Step 1: Request the energy certificate in writing by email or letter and set a 14-day deadline.
2. Step 2: Attach photos of defects and relevant meter readings as evidence if necessary.
3. Step 3: If there is no response, document this and consider advice from a tenants' association or legal steps.
4. Step 4: Use official forms via JustizOnline for court actions if out-of-court resolution is not possible.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• An energy certificate informs but does not automatically change the rent.
• Request documents in writing and keep thorough records.
• Seek legal advice before taking formal action.

Help and Support

• [1] RIS: Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
• [2] JustizOnline: Forms and e-Services
• [3] Justice: Courts and procedures

1. [1] RIS: Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG)
2. [2] JustizOnline: Formulare und e-Services