Who Pays Heating, Water, Electricity? Tenants in Austria
As a tenant in Austria you want to know who is responsible for heating, hot water and electricity. This guide explains in plain language which costs typically fall to the landlord, which operating costs can be passed on to tenants and when repairs or replacements must be covered by the landlord. You will also learn which deadlines and proof are important, how to respond to statements and what steps to take in case of disputes. This information helps you protect your rights as a tenant and avoid unnecessary costs.
Who pays what?
As a general rule: operating costs such as fuel, district heating or electricity for communal systems are often chargeable, while major maintenance is the landlord's responsibility. The exact allocation depends on the lease, the type of heating system and legal rules[1]. If in doubt, check the contract and, if necessary, seek legal advice or contact the district court[2].
Heating and hot water
For central heating systems, consumption and operating costs are usually passed on via the heating bill. Energy-saving measures and regular maintenance are often the landlord's duty. Minor repairs to individual radiators can be charged to the tenant if a small repair clause is included in the lease, but this must be clearly regulated.
- Operating costs for central heating are usually charged according to consumption or area.
- Maintenance and major repairs are generally the landlord's responsibility.
- Keep a record of consumption and invoices to avoid disputes.
Water
Water and sewage charges can be passed on as operating costs if agreed in the lease. Pipe repairs due to wear or material defects are usually the landlord's responsibility; the tenant may be liable for damage caused by negligence.
- Freshwater and sewage are often billed as operating costs.
- Pipe bursts and renovation work are typically arranged by the landlord.
Electricity
Electricity for the apartment is paid directly by the tenant to the energy supplier. Common-area electricity (hall lighting, elevator) is usually allocated via operating costs. Check your electricity contracts and bills carefully.
- Apartment electricity is the tenant's responsibility.
- Common consumption is distributed via operating costs.
What to do in case of disputes or unclear bills?
If bills are unclear or repairs are not carried out, document the defect in writing, set a reasonable deadline and request the landlord to remedy the situation. Send requests and replies by registered mail or email with delivery/read confirmation so you have proof[3].
- Send a defect notice with a deadline.
- Talk to the landlord and record any agreements in writing.
- If necessary, prepare documents for a claim at the district court.
FAQ
- Does the tenant have to pay for heating repairs?
- In general, the landlord pays for major repairs; small repairs agreed in the lease can be charged to the tenant.
- Can the landlord pass all heating costs to the tenant?
- Passing on costs is possible but must be contractually agreed and comply with legal requirements.
- What if operating costs are unpaid?
- The landlord can claim outstanding amounts; check the statement and deadlines and seek legal advice.
How-To
- First check the lease for clauses on operating costs and small repairs.
- Collect evidence: invoices, photos, maintenance records and correspondence.
- Contact the landlord in writing with a clear deadline to remedy the defect.
- If necessary, prepare documents for a claim at the district court or seek legal advice.
Help and Support / Resources
- RIS - Austrian Legal Information System
- JUSTIZ - Courts and Procedures
- JustizOnline - e-Services and Forms
