Applying for an apartment in Switzerland
When applying for an apartment, you should adhere to a number of principles. With these tips from Comparis, you’ll stand out from your competitors.
12.03.2025
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1. Make a positive first impression
The first impression also counts during property viewings. Likeable prospective tenants have a better chance when applying for an apartment. Therefore, pay attention to the following points as early as the viewing appointment:
Arrive on time, and dress in clean and appropriate clothing. Behave politely. A friendly smile and eye contact can make a big difference.
Introduce yourself using both your first and last names.
Show that you are genuinely interested in the apartment. Prepare one or two questions about the apartment or the surrounding area (e.g. about the start of the tenancy, the neighbourhood, or planned renovations). Listen carefully when details are explained to you. Listen carefully when details are explained to you. Show interest without being pushy – ask questions in an appropriate manner and don’t try to dominate the conversation.
Treat everyone involved (landlord, property management company, current tenants, other potential tenants) with respect. This behaviour makes a positive impression and will be remembered.
Tip: Landlords are not only looking for tenants who are solvent, but also for tenants who are likeable and reliable. Therefore, a genuine, positive demeanour can help you.
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2. Submit your documents in full and well prepared
After a successful viewing, a complete and carefully prepared application folder with all the important application documents will improve your chances. You can either bring the folder to the viewing or hand it over to the administration the next day.
Be sure to carefully read the requirements set out in the property listing. You should also be given a link to an application form you can fill out.
When compiling the documents, you should bear in mind the following points:
When applying, the landlord or administration may ask about pending debt collection and any loss certificates. Include the debt collection extract in your application documents. It must not be older than three months.
Good to know: according to the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC), landlords may only request a debt collection extract after the tenancy agreement has been signed. In practice, however, this is hardly ever implemented.
You should always fill in the landlord’s or property manager’s application form truthfully.. Incorrect information can have unpleasant consequences.
The application form may only ask for information based on objective evaluation criteria. Some questions are therefore only permitted under certain circumstances. Both the Tenants’ Association and the Federal Data Protection Commission have compiled overviews of admissible and inadmissible questions.
The landlord or property management company may only obtain references from third parties with the express consent of the applicants. «Third parties» could be your current landlord or employer, for example. This allows them to check the accuracy of the information provided.
The landlord or property management company may only request an identity document once the rental agreement is being drawn up . A copy of your identity card or residence permit counts as ID, for example. The landlord or property management company may use the ID only to check the data on the application form.
Cover letter
A cover letter is not strictly necessary. However, it gives the landlord or property management company a better, more personal impression.
The accompanying letter may contain personal information. Why should you get the apartment in particular? Why do you fit in with the other tenants? Why do you want to move into this apartment specifically?
In the cover letter, you can also describe your professional and family situation and state the reason for your move. Try to keep the Keep the information brief and don’t write more than one page.
Good to know: Some landlords indicate on the application form that you must pay a fee if you do not sign a tenancy agreement that has been prepared especially for you. However, according to the Tenants’ Association, you do not have to pay any compensation in this case. This also applies even if you have signed a corresponding application form.
3. Taboos when applying for an apartment
There are certain things you should avoid when applying for an apartment. These include:
Don’t miss an appointment without cancelling.
Never appear untrustworthy or unfriendly.
Don’t give bribes or gifts to the landlord or management as bribes.
Don’t haggle over the rental price.
Don’t try to lower the rental price by excessively criticising the property.
Don’t lie on your application, to look better. Only honest information allows landlords to make the right choice. This also reduces the risk of later disputes.
Help when moving home
Was your application successful? Congratulations. Soon you’ll be able to move into your new place and start making it feel like home. The Comparis moving checklist helps you to organise all the necessary matters.
Do you need professional help with your move?
4. Tips on how to deal with landlords and the administration
These tips will help you maintain a good relationship with the landlord or administration once you’ve moved in:
Transfer the rent on time and don’t miss any payment deadlines.
Follow the house rules and the rental agreement.
Never agree to anything only verbally never agree to anything only verbally in such cases. Instead, write a letter for both parties to sign.
If you have any problems, talk to the landlord or administration in a timely manner. This includes things like defective light bulbs in the stairway. The quicker the problem is resolved, the less chance there is of frustration arising.
Stay friendly and factual, even in the event of disagreements.
Do you have a conflict with your landlord that can’t be resolved? If you’re a member, you can, if in doubt, contact the Tenants’ Association tenants’ association.
This article was first published on 14.06.2017
