Tenant Rights in Austria: Fundamental MRG Rights
If you are a tenant in Austria and have questions about your fundamental rights under the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG), it can be stressful. This article explains step by step which protections tenants have, how the MRG regulates rent increases, terminations and necessary repairs, and which deadlines to observe. You will get practical tips on collecting evidence, responding to written notices and starting legal proceedings if needed. The language remains deliberately simple so that non-lawyers can understand what options are available and where to find official help. At the end you will find concrete action steps, an FAQ and links to government resources in Austria. These notes apply especially to older building rentals and free tenancy contracts.
What are fundamental rights in the MRG?
The Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) protects fundamental tenant rights in Austria, such as habitability, protection from unlawful termination and rules on rent increases.[1]
Common cases
- Rent increase: Check whether the increase complies with legal rules.
- Termination/Eviction: Observe deadlines and formal requirements.
- Repairs/Habitability: Right to working heating, water and safe facilities.
- Entry rights: Landlords must respect notice periods for inspections.
What to do? Concrete steps for tenants
If a fundamental right is affected, these steps help.
- Document defects, appointments and correspondence with dates and photos.
- Contact the landlord in writing first and request a deadline to remedy the defect.
- Observe legal deadlines and respond within the stated times.
- If necessary, prepare a claim at the district court; information and deadlines are available from judicial offices.[2]
FAQ
- Does the MRG apply to my apartment?
- The MRG applies to many apartments in Austria, especially older building rentals; whether it applies in an individual case depends on the contract and year of construction.
- What can I do if the landlord does not repair?
- Request repairs from the landlord in writing, document deadlines and consider legal action if inactivity persists.
- How do I contest an unlawful rent increase?
- Check the justification and calculation; file a written objection and seek legal help if necessary.
How-To
- Check and collect all relevant documents and photos.
- Write a precise defect notice to the landlord with a deadline.
- If there is no response, seek legal advice or the conciliation body.
- If needed, file a claim at the district court and use JustizOnline forms.[3]
Help and Support / Resources
- Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) – RIS
- Information on civil procedures – Justice
- JustizOnline: Forms and e-Services
