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Getting your rental deposit back

You have moved out and are still waiting for your deposit? Austrian tenancy law is on your side.

🇦🇹 The finished document is always in German – only the help is translated.

When must the deposit be returned?

After the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit with interest without undue delay (§ 16b MRG). A few weeks to check the flat are normal – months are not.

What may be deducted?

Only proven claims: unpaid rent or operating costs, damage beyond normal wear and tear, missing keys. Normal signs of living, such as slightly faded walls, may not be deducted.

Step by step

1. Make a handover record when you move out: meter readings, keys, photos with date, both sign.
2. Ask for the deposit in writing: amount, interest, your IBAN and a deadline of about 14 days.
3. If nothing comes: file a free application with the municipal arbitration board (Schlichtungsstelle) or the district court (Bezirksgericht).

Where to get help

Free advice from the Chamber of Labour (Arbeiterkammer), tenants’ associations (Mietervereinigung) and the free consultation day at the district court.

Full guide in German

This is guidance based on Austrian law and does not replace individual legal advice.
Dies ist eine Orientierungshilfe nach österreichischem Recht und ersetzt keine individuelle Rechtsberatung. Stand: Oktober 2026.