Tenant Termination Guide in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, you may face questions about termination deadlines, formalities and your protections when independently terminating your rental. This guide explains step by step which deadlines apply, how a written notice should look, which proofs are useful and which rights you have regarding repair obligations and security deposit issues. It is aimed at people without legal background and offers clear action instructions, checklists and guidance on authorities so you can carry out your termination safely, on time and legally correctly. Read the following steps carefully and use the checklist before sending the notice.
Termination: Deadlines and Form
As a tenant, different termination deadlines apply depending on the lease and the MRG[1]. In many cases the notice must be written and signed personally; check your contract for special rules. Court forms and submission routes are available via JustizOnline[3].
- Check the contractual termination period.
- Form: The notice should be in writing and include date and signature.
- Delivery: Send by registered mail or deliver personally against receipt.
- Documentation: Keep copies, photos and receipts.
Rights for Repairs and Handover
During the notice period the landlord remains responsible for maintaining the apartment. Report defects in writing and set deadlines for remedying them[1].
- Report defects: Send a defect notice with a deadline for correction.
- Inspections: Arrange appointments in writing and document entries.
How-To
- Check deadlines and mark the last day in your calendar.
- Write the notice: address, date, signature, termination date.
- Ensure delivery: use registered mail or hand over with receipt.
- Document: keep photos, handover protocol and payment records.
- If there is a dispute: contact tenant advice or prepare documents for the district court[2].
FAQ
- Which termination deadline applies to my apartment?
- That depends on the lease and the Mietrechtsgesetz; check your contract and the statutory rules[1].
- How should the notice be delivered?
- The safest option is registered mail with return receipt or personal delivery against signature.
- Who pays for repairs during the notice period?
- The landlord is generally responsible for maintenance; minor cosmetic repairs may be contractually regulated.
Key Takeaways
- Check termination deadlines early and note the end date.
- Written form and proof of delivery protect you legally.
- Document defects and payments for potential disputes.
