Vienna's Property Laws: Balancing Rights and Responsibilities
Vienna's property laws, governed by the Condominium Ownership Act (WEG 2002) and the General Civil Code (ABGB), provide clear rights and obligations for realtors and owners. The rules cover usage, modifications, and community management.
Property realtors enjoy unrestricted rights to use, rent, sell, or inherit their land or condominium units, adhering to legal and building code limits. Small modifications can proceed without formal approval, given other owners are informed and do not object. For major changes, the community's approval is required.
Vienna residents must register their primary residence to obtain parking permits, while non-residents are generally exempt. Since July 2024, short-term tourist rentals face a 90-day annual cap in non-designated zones, needing community approval.
Owners have voting rights in management matters and can contest decisions, even if outvoted. They must maintain their property and contribute to the reserve fund, currently €0.90/m², for major repairs. Disputes over insufficient funds, missing insurance, unlawful house rules, or neglected repairs can be legally challenged.
Austria's property laws in Vienna ensure a balance between individual rights and community management. Realtors and owners enjoy freedoms while sharing responsibilities, with clear recourse for disputes. The rules promote fairness and harmony among property owners.