Rent Control Austria 2026: Your Rights as a Tenant (Mietpreisbremse)

Important Notice: This guide is for general information only and does not replace legal advice. For specific tenancy law questions, contact the Chamber of Labour (Arbeiterkammer) or a lawyer. Last updated: February 2026.

Rent Control 2026: Historic Reform for Austrian Tenants

On January 1, 2026, the 5th Rent Law Inflation Mitigation Act (5. MILG) came into force. This historic reform introduces strict limitations on rent increases and significantly strengthens the rights of tenants in Austria.

Which Rents Are Affected?

Austrian rental law distinguishes between different types of tenancies:

The New Rent Increase Rules in Detail

1. Increases Only on April 1

From 2026, rent increases may only take effect once a year and only on April 1. This applies even if a different date was agreed in the rental contract.

Example: Your landlord increases rent as of July 1, 2026 – this is not allowed. The increase can only take effect on April 1, 2027 at the earliest.

2. Richtwert Rents: Strict Caps

For apartments in the full scope of the MRG (Austrian Rental Law), particularly strict rules apply:

| Period | Maximum Increase | |--------|------------------| | April 1, 2026 | +1% | | April 1, 2027 | +2% | | From 2028 | Normal Richtwert adjustment |

3. Free Market Rents: New Formula

For rental contracts with free rent and index-linking (Wertsicherung), a new calculation formula applies:

If the CPI (Consumer Price Index) is above 3%:

• Only half of the amount above 3% may be passed on to the tenant

Calculation example:

• CPI increase: 5%
• Amount above 3%: 2%
• Half of that: 1%
• Permissible rent increase: 3% + 1% = 4% (instead of 5%)

4. Longer Minimum Lease Duration

Landlords who are commercially active (e.g., real estate companies, cooperatives) must conclude rental contracts for at least 5 years (previously: 3 years).

This does not apply to:

• Private landlords with only one or a few apartments
• Subletting
• Service and company apartments

What to Do About Unlawful Rent Increases

Richtwert Values 2026 by Federal State

The Richtwert values are regularly adjusted. Here are the current values for 2026:

Note: Surcharges and deductions depending on amenities and location possible. Source: BMJ. As of January 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the rent control apply to my existing rental contract?

Yes, the new regulations apply to existing rental contracts as well. Rent increases may only take effect on April 1, regardless of what is stated in your rental contract.

Can my landlord still demand a rent increase in 2026?

Yes, but only as of April 1, 2026 and only within the legally permitted limits. For Richtwert rents, this means a maximum of +1%, for free rents the new CPI formula applies.

What happens if my landlord doesn't follow the rules?

Object in writing and contact the Arbeiterkammer or the Schlichtungsstelle. Unlawful rent increases can be challenged retroactively. The limitation period is 3 years.

Does the 5-year minimum lease apply to private landlords?

No, the extended minimum lease duration of 5 years only applies to commercial landlords (e.g., real estate companies, cooperatives). Private landlords with few apartments are exempt.

How do I know if my apartment is subject to Richtwert?

The Richtwert law generally applies to:

• Pre-war apartments (building permit before 1945 or 1953)
• Apartments in buildings with more than 2 rental units
• Municipal and cooperative apartments

If unsure, the Arbeiterkammer or a rental law advisor can help.

Tips for Tenants

1. Check your rental contract: Which rental law type applies to your apartment?
2. Document increases: Keep all correspondence from your landlord
3. Remember dates: Increases are only permitted on April 1
4. Use free advice: Arbeiterkammer offers free rental law consultations
5. Know the Schlichtungsstelle: First point of contact for disputes

Useful Resources

• Arbeiterkammer: ak.at/mietrecht – Free advice for members
• Mietervereinigung (Tenant Association): mietervereinigung.at – Membership from €70/year
• Schlichtungsstellen: In Vienna: MA 50, in other federal states: District Court

Conclusion: More Protection for Tenants in Austria

The 2026 rent control is an important step towards more housing security in Austria. With the limitation of rent increases to once a year and strict caps for Richtwert rents, tenants are better protected against excessive demands.

Important: Know your rights and don't hesitate to object to unlawful rent increases. The Arbeiterkammer and Schlichtungsstellen are available to help you free of charge.

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Sources: BMJ, Arbeiterkammer, Mietervereinigung. Updated: February 2026.