Tenant Rights for Heating & Hot Water in Austria
Many tenants in Austria experience heating or hot water disruptions in winter or year-round. Such outages reduce living quality and can raise legal questions about rent reduction, repair obligations and compensation claims. This guide explains in plain language which obligations the landlord has, which deadlines apply for reporting and repairs, and how you as a tenant can secure your rights. We describe practical steps: how to document faults, draft formal defect notices correctly, when a rent reduction is justified and how to proceed legally if there are delays. The guidance is based on Austrian law and is useful for tenancies covered by the MRG and other rental arrangements. If needed, we also explain how to meet deadlines and collect evidence for a complaint to the court.
What to do if heating or hot water fail?
If heating or hot water fail, the landlord is generally obliged to repair; this follows from tenancy law and the requirement that the dwelling be usable. Check whether the issue is an emergency or a regular defect and inform the landlord immediately in writing. Refer to the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) if relevant and document the defect carefully.[1]
Document outage times, temperatures and photos immediately after the defect occurs.
- Set a deadline: report the defect in writing and give a reasonable time for repair.
- Gather evidence: photos, measurements, temperature logs and witness statements.
- Contact: call the landlord or property manager and confirm the report in writing.
- Urgent repair: if there is danger or risk of freezing, act promptly and document repair costs.
In many cases a rent reduction is possible if the living quality is significantly impaired. The amount and start of a rent reduction depend on the severity of the defect; observe deadlines and document duration and condition. If defects are not remedied in time, seeking compensation or initiating legal action may be necessary. District courts are usually competent; be aware of procedures and deadlines.[2]
Respond within legal deadlines or you may lose your claims.
FAQ
- Can I reduce my rent if the heating fails?
- Under certain conditions a rent reduction is possible. If usability is significantly impaired, document the defect, set a deadline and notify the landlord in writing. [1]
- How do I report a defect correctly?
- Report the defect in writing with exact description, date and a deadline for repair; keep copies and confirmation of receipt.
- What to do for urgent outages outside business hours?
- In emergencies (e.g., freezing risk) arrange immediate professional measures; inform the landlord afterwards and keep invoices and receipts.
How-To
- Step 1: Describe the defect fully with location, start time and effects.
- Step 2: Send a written defect notice and set a clear deadline.
- Step 3: Collect evidence: photos, measurements and witness notes.
- Step 4: Contact the landlord and obtain confirmation of receipt.
- Step 5: If not remedied, consider rent reduction or legal action.
Key Takeaways
- Document the defect immediately and comprehensively.
- Set a written deadline for repair.
- Always communicate in writing and keep records.
Help and Support
- RIS: Legal texts and information
- Justice: court and procedure information
- JustizOnline: forms and filings
