THE HANDOVER If you have a particular moving date in mind, let the estate agency know before you sign the contract. Taking over a rental property is a formal process and involves certain obligations. Expect it to last one to three hours, and bring all relevant documents: proof of first month’s rent and deposit payment, and a copy of your insurance policy (if available). Handovers in Switzerland include a thorough examination of the current state of the property at the rental starting date. The assessment and handover protocol will be completed in the local language, and may include maintenance responsibilities for the new tenant. It is important to document any defects that occurred prior to yourt moving in. You will be asked to sign the completed handover protocol, which forms part of the formal rental contract. You may want to enlist the help of a professional, who is familiar with the local language and Switzerland’s property market and is willing to accompany you. Note that you will have 14 days to try everything out in the apartment (eg electrical appliances, water pressure etc). Should you discover some defects, report them to the agency or landlord via email or mail. Make sure these items are added to the handover protocol.
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INSPECTION TIPS
Bring a camera, pen and paper and a few stickers to label the doorbell and mailbox. Check that defects are clearly listed on the protocol. Check window frames, windows, walls and ceiling for holes, marks and other damage.Take pictures of damages, including any scratches or marks, and have them noted in the protocol. Check that all doors have a key and that they really work for the relevant door(s). Open and close blinds and sun shades. Check light fixtures; flush the toilet; test faucets in the sink, shower, kitchen; inspect fridge and freezer and any electrical appliances. Check the cellar, communal laundry room and garage/parking spots. Inquire about your responsibilities with regard to service contracts for electrical appliances, snow removal, and garden maintenance (if applicable).
26 The Expert Guide Switzerland
SECURITY DEPOSIT
Most estate agencies will have you set up a bank account for your rental deposit. It is free of charge and you’ll earn interest. Alternatively, SwissCaution can reduce the deposit to 1.5 months rent, but note that there is a charge for this service.
UTILITIES You can expect electricity and water, while gas is less common – but all of these will be set up by your landlord. You’ll have to set up TV, telephone, and internet and register for Serafe. It’s best to get your apartment’s previous tenant’s name and ask about previous third-party providers. Make inquiries two to three weeks before your move. Ask for a contract and request that the services be operational when you move in. If you need help from an electrician, simply find one on local.ch. While expensive by international standards, you can count on them to be efficient and dependable. Item
Issues
Who pays
Cleaning of Common spaces are staircases, elevators, common space garbage containers, washing areas etc.
Landlord
Electricity
The Swiss energy market is regional and privatized, and you probably won’t be able to choose your provider. Generally not covered in the ancillary costs listed in the contract except for the basic connection fees.
Renter
Gardening
Common green areas and playgrounds in housing estates
Landlord
Your own private garden
Renter or dedicated gardener if stated in the rental agreement
Insurance
A private liability and household insurance is strongly recommended (see ‘Money’ chapter)
Renter
Landline, internet and cable TV
Connections are available in all apartments, but you will need to sign up with local providers.
Renter
Serafe
Switzerland’s radio and television fee (365Fr per household) is mandatory for all households with TVs, radio or internet.
Renter
Water and sewage
The basic fee for water connection and waste water is included in the rent but not the actual water consumption.
Renter
Housing 27