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You are here: Home Housing Renting How to rent and buy a house in Switzerland

10/11/2009How to rent and buy a house in Switzerland

Buying or renting a house in Switzerland Information about renting property and obtaining a mortgage in Switzerland.

Finding accommodation in Switzerland is not the easiest of tasks. It is best to start searching before leaving your country.

If you are bringing your family along, it is better for them to join you after you find suitable accommodation. If you are arriving alone, guesthouses, hotels, or staying with friends are options. Many hotels and bed-and-breakfast establishments cater to long-term guests and offer weekly and monthly rates.

While using an estate agent may be expensive, it may be a better option for foreigners than dealing with Swiss owners and government officials who may not speak English. Using a relocation company can be a less costly option.

Why rent (mieten/loyer)?

Over seventy percent of the Swiss population rents. Renting a house or apartment has comparative advantages like favourable tenant rights (landlords are in no position to expel their tenants if payment is on time) and easy cancellation of leases. Leases tend to be made for a period of one year. If a conflict arises between you and your landlord, being a member of your local tenants’ association (Mieterverband, association des locataires) will prove beneficial.


Rent rates in Switzerland are comparable to other European countries. However, you will find variations between the cantons. Rents are higher in cantons like Basel, Geneva and Zurich, due to excess demand. Most landlords will expect a three-month deposit, or Kaution/Caution, which is returned when you move out, in addition to the interest earned over the rental period. Accommodation is generally rented unfurnished, but many apartments will be equipped with a stove, refrigerator and dishwasher. In addition to the basic rent, apartment tenants should expect to pay building maintenance costs and utilities for apartments; house tenants usually pay house maintenance (water pipes, gutter, garden and chimney) and utilities.

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