The OIB Guidelines are a central component of construction engineering regulations in Austria. They serve to harmonize the technical construction requirements of the federal states and form the basis for legally compliant and uniform enforcement. The aim is to clearly define the requirements for the safety, energy efficiency and usability of buildings.

Every four years, the OIB Guidelines are developed and adapted by the Austrian Institute of Construction Engineering together with experts from the federal states and numerous stakeholders from the construction industry and business. Following a decision by the General Assembly, they are published and then made available to the federal states. These can declare the OIB Guidelines binding, for example by means of a building technology ordinance. This ensures uniform implementation in Austria.

TO enable maximum flexibility and technical innovation despite strict criteria, it is possible to deviate from the OIB Guidelines in accordance with the provisions in the relevant ordinances of the federal states if it can be demonstrated that an equivalent level of protection is achieved as if the OIB Guidelines were complied with.

The OIB Guidelines are based on the basic requirements for construction works of the Construction Products Regulation (EU CPR) and cover topics such as fire protection, sound insulation, energy saving and accessibility. In addition, a new OIB Guideline on the sustainable use of natural resources (OIB Guideline 7) is currently under development.

The OIB Guidelines 1-6 are divided into the following areas of construction:

OIB Guidelines are not created “overnight”. Behind every guideline is an intensive process of technical work, coordination and cooperation between experts, federal states, authorities, industry and practice.

The process thrives on the exchange between technology, practice, administration and legislation – with the common goal of creating reliable and modern rules for building in Austria.

1. need for and revision of
OIB Guidelines are regularly published in the revised every 4 years. In addition Changes to European requirements may necessitate adjustments outside this rhythm.

2. technical elaboration
Experts from the federal states, authorities and the OIB develop drafts with the involvement of science and practice.

3. coordination and discussion
The drafts are technically, legally and practically coordinated in order tofind the best solution – technically sensible, legally feasible and practicable

4. review and consultation procedure
Public and professional assessment. Statements and suggestions for changes will be examined and included in the revision if necessary.

5. resolution
The General Assembly of the OIB adopts the OIB Guidelines. This is followed by its publication.

6. implementation

The federal states declare the OIB Guidelines to be binding, for example by means of building technology regulations.

The revision of the OIB Guidelines 2027 follows a clear timetable.
Transparency and participation are particularly important here.

Note on possible delays for inquiries!

Over the next few months, there may be delays in responding to inquiries about existing OIB Guidelines, as the expert advisory boards are working intensively on the timely completion of the OIB Guidelines 2027. Thank you for your understanding!