Tenants: Heating & Hot Water Issues in Austria
A heating or hot water failure can quickly disrupt daily life. This guide explains in clear language which rights and obligations tenants and landlords in Austria have, how to document faults correctly and which deadlines apply. It describes first steps, from immediately contacting the landlord to commissioning emergency services, and shows when legal action or proceedings at the district court may be appropriate. Also read which repairs the landlord must pay for and how to set deadlines; helpful forms and contacts are listed at the end of the article.
What to do for heating and hot water failures?
As a tenant, you should first inform the landlord and report the fault in writing so that claims and obligations are documented.[1]
- Contact the landlord immediately and report the problem in writing.
- Document the fault: take photos and note the date, time and duration.
- Set a deadline: give a reasonable grace period for repair.
- If there is danger or a total failure, call emergency services and keep all receipts.
Who pays the costs?
In principle, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the apartment; minor, contractually agreed maintenance may differ. Document the defect and clarify cost coverage with the landlord in writing.
Deadlines and legal steps
Set a clear deadline for the landlord to remedy the defect. If the landlord does not act, further steps such as rent reduction, commissioning a proper repair at the landlord's expense or filing a claim at the district court can be considered.[2]
FAQ
- What should I do first if the heating fails?
- Contact the landlord in writing, document the defect and set a deadline for repair.
- Can the landlord immediately reduce heating costs?
- A rent reduction is possible in case of significant impairment; check your rights and document the condition carefully.
- Where can I turn in case of immediate danger?
- Call emergency services and inform your landlord; for legal questions the district court can provide assistance.[2]
How-To
- Document the defect with photos, date, time and witnesses.
- Inform the landlord in writing and request a repair.
- Set a reasonable deadline and announce further steps.
- If necessary, file a claim at the district court or use official forms.[2]
- Use JustizOnline forms for court filings.[3]
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic of Austria
- [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information on Courts
- [3] JustizOnline - Electronic Forms
