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Austria – Property Building and Renovation

Planning Permission in Austria

In Austria, it is necessary to apply for planning permission to build or renovate a property. The procedure is as follows:

  • Obtain a project from an architect or engineer
  • Submit the project to the local building authority for approval
  • Once approved, obtain a building permit from the local building authority

Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, and Preservation Orders

If your property is listed or located within a conservation area or preservation order, there are additional rules and regulations to follow.

  • Listed buildings require approval from the Federal Monuments Office for any alterations or renovations
  • Conservation areas and preservation orders may have restrictions on the type of changes that can be made to the property’s exterior

Finding Reliable Builders in Austria

When looking for a builder in Austria, it’s important to find someone reliable and trustworthy. One way to do this is to look for builders who belong to a professional organization.

  • The Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO) is a professional organization that represents builders and contractors in Austria. They can be contacted at office@wko.at or +43 5 90900.

Permits and Licences

When building or renovating a property in Austria, there are several permits and licenses you may need to obtain.

  • Building permit: Required for any new construction or major renovation
  • Occupancy permit: Required before you can occupy the property
  • Electrical permit: Required for any electrical work
  • Plumbing permit: Required for any plumbing work

Finding a Local Architect in Austria

If you need an architect to design your project, you can find one through the Austrian Chamber of Architects and Engineering Consultants.

  • Austrian Chamber of Architects and Engineering Consultants: office@arching.at or +43 1 505 86 60

Buying Land in Austria

If you’re buying land in Austria, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of.


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  • Make sure you have planning permission before purchasing land
  • Check the boundaries of the land to ensure they match the land registry
  • Be aware of any environmental or conservation restrictions that may affect the land