Who Pays Internet, TV and Parking? Tenants in Austria
Many tenants in Austria wonder who is responsible for costs for internet, TV and a parking space. In some cases internet or cable TV is included in the rental agreement, in others tenants take out their own contracts. The same applies to rented parking spaces or assigned parking: costs, billing and responsibilities often depend on contract clauses, house rules and local practice. This article explains in plain language which rules typically apply, how service charges are billed and what steps you as a tenant can take if there is uncertainty or dispute. The guidance refers to Austrian tenancy law and practical steps for tenants so you can better understand your rights and avoid conflicts.
Who pays in practice?
As a rule, whoever is named as the contracting party for a service in the lease agreement also bears the costs. Many landlords set internet/TV conditions in the lease or house rules, others expect tenants to order their own subscriptions. For parking spaces the agreement can vary: some parking spaces are included in the rent, others are rented separately.
- Tenants pay their own internet or TV subscriptions if the lease does not say otherwise.
- If internet/TV is expressly stated in the lease, the payment rule described there applies.
- For separately rented parking spaces, the user of the space usually pays the fee.
- For communal systems (e.g. house internet connection) costs can sometimes be charged via operating costs.
Contract clauses, billing and operating costs
Whether costs can be billed via operating costs depends on the specific legal basis and the agreement. The tenancy law and the general civil code contain rules about passing on operating costs and tenancy contracts.[1] Pay attention to wording like "included" or "acconto" vs. "flat rate" in the billing.
- Check whether internet/TV or parking is explicitly listed among allocable operating costs.
- Request receipts and billing details if costs are charged via operating costs.
- Contact the landlord first about discrepancies; document requests in writing.
- For persistent disputes consider mediation or court proceedings at the district court.[2]
If you as a tenant disagree with a charge, clear documented communication often helps. Gather contracts, invoices, photos and written messages as evidence.
How to proceed: check rights and take steps
Follow a clear sequence: check the contract, document everything, send a written request to the landlord, consider mediation or court. For chargeable communal connections the allocation clause must be transparent.
Key points to check
- Is internet/TV or the parking space explicitly mentioned in the lease or an addendum?
- Which documents exist (invoices, payment receipts, billing statements)?
- Are costs agreed as acconto or flat rate and how does that affect billing?
FAQ
- Who has to pay for internet if the lease is silent?
- If the lease contains no provision, the tenant typically takes out their own subscription and pays the cost.
- Can landlords allocate internet costs to all tenants as a flat fee?
- Only if this is contractually agreed or legally permissible; the allocation must be transparent and verifiable.
- What to do if the landlord starts charging for a parking space?
- First check the lease; request a written justification and evidence, and document all communications.
How-To
- Review your lease and any annexes carefully.
- Collect invoices, receipts and correspondence as proof.
- Send the landlord a written inquiry with a deadline to clarify the costs.
- If no agreement is reached, consider mediation or district court proceedings.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Lease wording usually decides who pays.
- Keep receipts and written records to support your position.
- Early, written contact with the landlord often prevents escalation.
Help and Support
- [1] RIS - Legal Information System of the Republic
- [2] Justice - Information on courts and procedures
- [3] JustizOnline - Forms and online services
