Tenant Rights: Entry for Repairs in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, you have clear rights when landlords or tradespeople need access to your apartment for repairs or renovation. This article explains in plain language which deadlines apply, when entry is permitted, what obligations landlords have and under which conditions you may be entitled to compensation. The goal is to give you practical steps to document events, coordinate appointments and protect your privacy without technical legal jargon. Read the checklist and the how-to guide below to be prepared and to enforce your rights confidently.
When is entry permitted?
Generally, the landlord may not enter the apartment at will. Entry for necessary renovation work is permitted if it is stated in the lease, there is a legal basis or there is an urgent danger to the property. For planned renovations, the landlord usually must announce the work in advance and arrange an appointment.
Preparation: rights, duties and documentation
Prepare by keeping communication in writing and documenting all appointments, defects and agreements. Photos and short written logs help to support claims for compensation or rent reduction later. If keys are handed over, note the date and time.
- The landlord must announce appointments in good time and coordinate with you.
- You can request information about the scope and duration of the work.
- Keep a protocol with photos as evidence of the condition before and after the renovation.
- Keep all written communication for any potential legal dispute.
What to do in case of refusal or trespass?
If tradespeople arrive without announcement or outside agreed times, that is not automatically permitted. You may refuse access if there is no legal basis. Document the incident and inform the landlord in writing about the disturbance. For repeated violations you can contact the district court or seek legal advice.
Compensation and rent reduction
If renovation work causes significant restrictions (e.g. loss of heating, water or permanent limitations to use), tenants may be entitled to compensation or a rent reduction. The amount depends on the extent and duration of the impairment and the statutory rules.
- Request compensation or rent reduction in writing if there is significant impairment.
- Document outages and restrictions with photos and witnesses.
- Submit claims by registered mail or email with delivery confirmation.
Practical steps before, during and after renovation
Proceed step by step: inform, document, set deadlines and, if necessary, announce legal steps. Stay factual and try to find an amicable solution with the landlord first.
- Ask the landlord in writing for information about the type, scope and expected duration of the renovation.
- Agree on fixed appointments and completion deadlines.
- Create a photo record of the condition before work begins.
- Keep a log during the works of hours and disturbances.
- After completion, request a written statement on compensation if there were damages or significant restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord send tradespeople without notice?
- No, generally not. Exceptions exist in cases of acute danger to life or property; otherwise prior notice is required.[1]
- When am I entitled to a rent reduction?
- For significant impairments of use that materially reduce the value of the dwelling. Duration and extent are decisive.[2]
- How should I document damages?
- Take dated photos, keep written logs and collect witness statements to support claims.
How-To
- Request written information from the landlord about the nature, scope and expected duration of the renovation.
- Set a reasonable deadline for scheduling and completion.
- Create a photo record of the condition and save messages and appointments.
- After completion, request a written clarification on compensation if restrictions or damages occurred.
Help and Support
- RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- Justice - Court and procedure information
- JustizOnline - Forms and e-Services
