Tenant Rights: Reasonable Adjustments in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, you have the right to request reasonable adjustments in your apartment when they are necessary for use or accessibility. This article explains clearly how to submit an application, which supporting documents are useful, and how to proceed if the landlord refuses. We describe deadlines, the role of the lease and the MRG, possible cost coverage, and how to file an objection or complaint formally. The aim is to give you clear steps: gather documentation, request in writing, observe deadlines, and seek legal help if needed. The information helps you avoid conflicts or resolve them constructively so your living situation becomes safer and more accessible.
Rights and legal basis
The main legal bases are the Mietrechtsgesetz (MRG) and parts of the Austrian Civil Code (ABGB). The MRG regulates when and which adjustments the landlord must tolerate.[1]
In most cases, the MRG protects basic tenant rights.
Before applying
Before making a formal request, gather documents and clarify which changes are necessary. Good preparation increases the chance of approval.
- Collect documentation: photos, medical certificates, and daily notes.
- Check your lease for clauses about structural changes.
- Try an informal conversation with the landlord before submitting a formal request.
Always send requests in writing and keep a copy.
How to submit the request
Write a clear written request stating the reasons and a deadline. Describe the desired adjustments and attach supporting documents. For court steps, e-forms from JustizOnline may be used.[2]
- Written request to the landlord: date, description, and proposed measures.
- Set deadlines: ask for a reply within a reasonable 14–30 days.
- Clarify costs: agree who pays which costs or whether subsidies are available.
- Attach evidence: medical certificates, cost estimates, photos.
Respond quickly to follow-up questions; missing deadlines can weaken your claims.
Challenge and objection
If the landlord refuses, request a written justification and review the legal position. In disputes, an objection or lawsuit may be appropriate; court proceedings are usually at the district court.
- File objections within the deadline: pay attention to short time limits after refusal.
- Legal action: bring a claim at the district court if mediation fails.
- Secure evidence: preserve correspondence, photos, and expert reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are reasonable adjustments?
- Reasonable adjustments are changes that enable accessibility or use without imposing an undue burden on the landlord.
- Who pays for adjustments?
- Cost allocation depends on the individual case, the lease, and legal rules; sometimes subsidies are available.
- How long do I have to file an objection?
- Deadlines vary; follow any deadline given in the notice or respond within about 14–30 days if none is specified.
How-To
- Collect documentation: gather records, photos, and medical certificates.
- Submit a written request: state date, description, and deadline.
- Set and monitor a response deadline.
- File an objection or complaint formally if necessary.
- If needed, bring a claim at the district court.
