Tenants: Report Changes on Time in Austria

As a tenant in Austria, it can be confusing who must report which changes — for example when moving, renovating or arranging repairs. This guide explains simply and practically when you as a tenant should inform the landlord or authorities, what deadlines apply and what rights exist in the event of defects or necessary work. We cover typical examples, such as damage reports, planned alterations or billing changes, and give step-by-step instructions on how to collect evidence and respond formally. We also explain what the Tenancy Act (MRG) says about maintenance and repair duties^[1] and how you can use official bodies like the district court if an agreement is not possible^[2].

What must tenants report?

Tenants should report changes that affect the use of the flat, safety, or the contractual basis. This includes defects, lack of heating or water, permanent alterations to the flat or changes to payment details. Regarding repair duties, the Tenancy Act (MRG §3) points to the responsibilities of landlord and tenant;^[1] often the reporting duty lies with the tenant so that deadlines are met and consequences limited.

Typical cases

• Report defects and damages (repair): heating, water, mould should be reported to the landlord promptly.
• Timely notifications (deadline): reporting within days or weeks ensures claims are not lost.
• Changes to payment details (payment): notify the landlord of bank details or direct debit changes to avoid missed payments.
• Requests for alterations or installations (notice): obtain written consent for structural changes.

How to document and report?

Good documentation helps avoid later disputes. Note date and time, take photos or videos and inform the landlord in writing — by email or letter. Specify a concrete deadline for repair if necessary and describe the defect precisely.

• Collect evidence (evidence): secure photos, videos and witness statements.
• Send written notification (notice): an email with a short description and deadline is often sufficient.
• Consider court steps if disputed (court): contact the district court if no agreement is possible^[2].

FAQ

Who pays for repairs: landlord or tenant?

Generally the landlord bears major maintenance costs; minor repairs may be the tenant's responsibility under the contract. Check your lease and the MRG.

How quickly must I report a water damage?

Immediately: water or heating failures should be reported without delay to prevent further damage.

What if the landlord does not respond?

Document again and set a written deadline. If the landlord still does not act, consider legal steps or involving the district court.

How-To

1. Describe the problem precisely and take photos or videos as evidence.
2. Send a written notification to the landlord (email or letter) and request repair within a reasonable deadline.
3. Note deadlines and follow up in writing if there is no response.
4. If no agreement is possible, prepare documents for the district court and use JustizOnline for forms if needed^[3].

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] RIS - Legal Information System
• [2] Justiz.gv.at - Information on Courts
• [3] JustizOnline - Forms and e-Services

1. [1] RIS - Tenancy Act (MRG)
2. [2] Justiz.gv.at - District courts and procedures
3. [3] JustizOnline - Electronic forms