Tenant Rights: Energy, Heating & Hot Water in Austria
What to do if heating or hot water fails?
If heating or hot water fails, tenants in Austria have the right to functional services and must inform the landlord without delay. Document date, time and extent of the defect, take photos and note telephone calls. If necessary, demand repair in writing and set a reasonable deadline; this helps with later claims and official procedures.[1]
Practical steps
- Report the defect in writing (heating, water) with a clear description.
- Set a deadline with a date (deadline) and provide contact details.
- Collect evidence: photos, thermometer readings and witness notes (evidence).
- Check operating cost statements for relevant information (rent).
If the landlord does not respond within the set deadline, you may arrange an appropriate repair yourself or reduce the rent depending on the severity. Inform the landlord in writing about your intended actions where possible.
Rights and obligations briefly explained
The landlord is obliged to maintain the rental property in a usable condition; this includes heating and hot water supply. Tenants are obliged to report defects immediately and allow access for necessary repairs. In case of disagreements, the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) provides the legal framework for obligations and claims.[1]
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if heating or hot water is missing?
- Yes, a rent reduction may be possible if the usability is significantly impaired. It is important to report the defect within the deadline and keep complete documentation.
- How do I phrase a deadline for repairs?
- Phrase clearly: describe the defect, set a concrete deadline (date) for remedy and announce further steps if the deadline passes.
- When is the district court responsible?
- For disputes about small to medium claims, the district court is usually responsible; for complex or higher claims, higher courts may follow.[2]
How-To
- Report the problem in writing and set a deadline (form).
- Observe deadlines and document all responses (deadline).
- Gather evidence: photos, readings and witness notes (evidence).
- If there is no response, consider whether court action is necessary (court).
- Check operating cost statements and contest if needed (rent).
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic (laws, incl. MRG)
- [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information on courts and procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - Electronic forms and submissions
