Who Pays to Find a Student Flat? Tenants in Austria
Many students wonder who bears the costs when it comes to finding a student flat in Austria. As a tenant you should know basic rights and typical expenses: deposit, possible broker fees, advertisement or moving costs, and minor repair expenses. This text clearly explains which items are often expected from the tenant and which from the landlord, how the legal basis under the Mietrechtsgesetz[1] and the General Civil Code (ABGB)[2] is classified, and which practical steps help you distribute costs fairly. The advice is aimed at students and other tenants in Austria who search for a shared flat or a single apartment and want to act in a structured way if problems arise.
Who pays which costs?
Not all expenses are automatically borne by the tenant. Here is an overview of typical items when searching for an apartment:
- Deposit: In many cases the tenant pays a deposit that is returned at the end of the tenancy if there are no claims.
- Broker fees: If a broker actively mediates, commissions may apply; it depends on who commissioned the broker.
- Moving costs: Moving and transport are generally the tenant's responsibility.
- Repairs and maintenance: Small repairs can be the tenant's duty according to the contract; major defects are usually the landlord's responsibility.
- Advertisement and application costs: In practice, applicants often cover their own travel or application expenses.
Whether an item is paid by the tenant or the landlord often depends on the contract, practice and law; unclear cases should be clarified with the landlord before payment.
FAQ
- Do I have to pay the broker fee as a tenant?
- If you commissioned the broker or signed an agreement with a mediation order, the commission usually falls to you; check the exact order and the invoice.
- Who pays the deposit and how is it returned?
- The tenant usually pays the deposit; it must be secured and will be refunded after the tenancy ends if there are no justified claims.
- Where can I turn if there is a dispute about costs?
- For disputed issues, first try written communication; if no agreement is reached, the district court is a possible contact point.[3]
How-To
- Observe deadlines: Check application and payment deadlines in the advertisement and rental contract.
- Clarify costs: Ask before making payments who covers which costs and get confirmations in writing.
- Document the condition: Take photos and prepare a handover protocol.
- Secure documents: Keep the rental contract, payment receipts and correspondence.
Key Takeaways
- Check before paying whether a cost was agreed to be covered by someone.
- Documentation (receipts, photos, protocols) strengthens your position in disputes.
- Observe deadlines for payments and remedies.
Help and Support
- RIS: Legal texts and commentary
- Justiz: Information on courts and procedures
- JustizOnline: Forms and electronic submissions
