Consumer Protection in Austria

Consumer protection applies primarily when a private individual concludes a transaction with a business for private purposes. In Austria, the term consumer protection (Konsumentenschutz) is also frequently used. For many transactions, businesses must provide consumers with clear information about essential contract features and costs. Unclear, surprising or grossly disadvantageous contract clauses may raise legal concerns. When buying goods in a shop, there is no general right to return faultless goods merely because of a change of mind. However, a business may offer a voluntary exchange subject to conditions. Certain contracts concluded online, by telephone or outside business premises may carry a statutory right of withdrawal. There are exceptions, however, so the goods, type of contract and method of conclusion must be considered together. The statutory warranty concerns defects for which the business is legally responsible. Depending on the circumstances, repair, replacement, a price reduction or cancellation of the contract may be available. A guarantee is an additional voluntary promise by the manufacturer or seller. Its content is determined by the guarantee statement, and it does not replace statutory warranty rights. Additional protection rules may apply to digital services, subscriptions, energy, travel or financial transactions. The competent complaints or dispute-resolution body therefore depends on the type of contract. Good documentation makes it easier to enforce rights. Receipts, order confirmations, product descriptions, terms and conditions, photos and correspondence show what was agreed and what problem exists.