Termination for Job/Move: Tenant Rights in Austria
As a tenant in Austria, it is stressful when a landlord terminates your lease because of a job change or a planned move. You may ask: Which deadlines apply, can the landlord demand immediate vacating, and what rights do you have under the Tenancy Act? This article explains in clear terms which steps are sensible now: how to review the termination, which deadlines to meet, how to gather evidence and when to seek advice or court help. We list practical immediate actions, outline common reasons for termination and explain how to handle handover and apartment return legally. This helps tenants in Austria stay calm and act confidently.
Your rights as a tenant in Austria
As a tenant you are protected by statutory rules such as the Tenancy Act (MRG) and general provisions of the ABGB. Check the written termination for reasons and deadlines and document every communication from the landlord.[1]
In most cases the MRG protects tenants against arbitrary terminations.
Immediate steps after a termination
- Check the termination deadline and the date of service (deadline).
- Request written confirmation and a clear reason for the termination (notice).
- Collect evidence: emails, messages, photos and witness statements (evidence).
- Contact advisory services or tenant associations early (contact).
- Plan your move only when deadlines are clear and a date is fixed (move-out).
Respond within the set deadlines, otherwise you may lose rights.
How do legal proceedings proceed?
If the termination is questionable or deadlines were breached, you can object and, if necessary, file a claim with the competent district court. For court procedures and electronic forms use JustizOnline for submissions and information.[2]
Thorough documentation increases your chances in negotiations or court.
Key points at a glance
- Check deadlines and timestamp all incoming and outgoing communications.
- Gather evidence: photos, messages and witnesses are essential.
- Seek legal advice or mediation before you decide to vacate.
FAQ
- Can the landlord terminate because of my job change?
- A termination due to a move or job change is not automatically permitted; check the contract terms and whether the termination was formally justified.
- Which deadlines apply?
- Pay attention to the termination deadlines stated in the contract and the service date; statutory deadlines may also apply.
- Do I have to move out immediately?
- Only in the case of a lawful immediate termination must you vacate immediately; otherwise normal notice periods apply and you can consider legal remedies.
How-To
- Read the termination carefully and note the date, service and reason (notice).
- Collect documents: lease, correspondence, photos and witness statements as evidence.
- Contact a tenant advisory service or legal office for an initial assessment (contact).
- If necessary, file objection or claim with the district court (court).
- Prepare the apartment handover and document defects in writing (move-out).
Help and Support
- RIS – Legal Information System of the Federal Government
- Justice of Austria
- JustizOnline – e-Forms and Services
