Tenant & rental rights
Know your rights when the reference interest rate falls, when giving notice and when moving out.
Possible reduction: 5.82% per month
CHF 116
Each 0.25 point drop allows about 2.91% less rent. Landlords may offset inflation and cost increases. Check the current rate with the Federal Office for Housing.
Notice & moving
- Notice must be sent by registered letter and arrive before the notice period starts.
- Standard notice is 3 months to the local notice dates, unless your lease says otherwise.
- Moving out early: propose a solvent replacement tenant to end your obligations.
Deposit
- The deposit is held in a blocked account in your name, max 3 months’ rent.
- If the landlord makes no claim within 1 year of moving out, the bank must release it to you.
Handover
- Attend the handover inspection and sign only what you agree with.
- Defects not listed in the protocol generally cannot be claimed later.
- Document the flat with photos on move-in and move-out.
Disputes
- Conciliation authorities (Schlichtungsbehörde) handle rent disputes free of charge.
- Tenant associations (Mieterverband / ASLOCA) offer advice to members.
General information only, not legal or financial advice. Rules can differ by canton — always check the official source.