Tenants: CO Risks and Ventilation in Austria
As a tenant in Austria you are responsible for safety at home, but you are not alone: landlords, property owners and legal rules also play a role. Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide hazards, improper ventilation or faulty heating can threaten living quality and health. In this guide we explain in clear language how to recognise CO risks, how correct ventilation works, which immediate measures you should take and how to report problems to your landlord. We also describe which measuring devices make sense, how often to ventilate and how to document evidence. You will get clear emergency instructions and notes on tenant rights under Austrian law.
What is CO and why is ventilation important?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas produced by incomplete combustion of gas, oil or wood heaters. High concentrations can cause dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness or death; lower concentrations cause headaches and fatigue. Regular airing reduces humidity and pollutant concentrations in the apartment and lowers the risk of CO buildup.If you have acute symptoms, leave the apartment immediately.
Concrete measures for tenants
- If you experience sudden symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea) leave the apartment immediately and get fresh air.
- Call emergency services (144) if multiple people are affected or someone loses consciousness.
- Use quick airing several times a day for 5–10 minutes rather than tilted windows to reduce drafts and heat loss.
- Install CO detectors or ask your landlord in writing to install working detectors.
- Report defective devices (heating, gas stove, chimney) to the landlord and document with photos and timestamps.
- If you suspect a defect: send a written defect notice and set a deadline for repair (include evidence).
A written defect notice strengthens your legal position in later disputes.
How and when to inform the landlord
Inform the landlord immediately in writing by email or registered letter if there is a CO risk or the heating is not functioning properly. State date, time, symptoms, affected rooms and attach photos or measurements. Request a deadline for repair and offer access times if inspection is necessary. If the landlord does not respond, consider legal steps at the district court or seek advice from official bodies.[1]Keep every communication with the landlord and technicians.
FAQ
- How do I recognise carbon monoxide?
- CO is odourless; typical signs are headache, dizziness, nausea, concentration problems and simultaneous symptoms in several people.
- Who is responsible for CO detectors and heating safety?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for traffic safety and the proper condition of heating systems; request repairs in writing and refer to legal obligations.[1]
- How often should I ventilate?
- Quick airing several times daily for 5–10 minutes is effective; ventilate more often in kitchens and bathrooms, especially when cooking or showering.
How-To
- Leave the apartment immediately and get to safety if you suspect CO.
- Call emergency services 144 if people are affected or symptoms are severe.
- Inform the landlord in writing and document time, symptoms and measurements.
- Have heating and flue systems inspected by a professional if the landlord does not respond.
- Keep all receipts, photos and messages as evidence.
Key Takeaways
- CO is invisible and can be life-threatening; act quickly to stay safe.
- Quick, regular airing is the most effective everyday measure against pollutants and moisture.
- Documentation and written defect notices strengthen your position with the landlord.
Help and Support
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- [2] Justice - Information and Services
- [3] JustizOnline - Electronic Court Procedures
