Tenancy
Tenancy related matters
Tenancy issues can arise in many forms, from questions about rent adjustments to disagreements over lease termination or subletting.
This page outlines some of the most common situations faced by tenants in Switzerland and provides a brief overview of the legal principles involved.
If you are experiencing one of these issues, or any other tenancy-related concern, we would be happy to discuss your situation in detail during a consultation.
Legal Expat Consultation Desk
Receive clear and structured guidance on tenancy matters in Switzerland.
Whether you are dealing with a lease agreement, rent increase, termination, or a dispute with your landlord, consultations are provided by independent Swiss attorneys and tailored to your situation.
Through Legal Expat, you can book a consultation with an independent Swiss attorney experienced Tenancy related matters:
During your consultation, you can receive guidance on:
- Rent Increase and Abusive Rent
- Early Lease Termination
- Subletting
- Defects and Maintenance of the leased property
Consultations are available online or in person in Geneva.
CHF 300 · Up to 45 minutes
Includes case review, focused consultation, and a clear written summary with next steps.
Legal consultations are provided by independent Swiss attorneys acting under their own
professional responsibility.
Rent Increase and Abusive Rent
Navigating the complexities of Swiss tenancy law doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From understanding what constitutes an “abusive” rent to knowing exactly when and how a landlord can legally raise your monthly costs, staying informed is your best defense.
Explore your rights regarding rent increases, learn how to contest unfair rates, and discover the specific legal steps you can take to protect your home and your wallet.
Early Lease Termination
Breaking your lease early requires more than just moving out; you remain liable for rent unless you provide a suitable replacement tenant. Understanding the specific solvency criteria and notice periods is essential to ending your financial obligations legally and smoothly.
Explore how to propose a valid replacement and avoid paying for a home you no longer occupy.
Subletting
Whether you’re looking to sublet your space or navigating a dispute over property repairs, knowing the legal boundaries is key. Landlords generally must consent to subletting, provided the terms are fair and the property is maintained.
Learn when you can legally sublet and how to distinguish between your repair duties and the landlord’s obligations.
Defects and maintenance of the leased property
Swiss law requires landlords to maintain a property’s “intended use,” while tenants are only responsible for “minor maintenance” and basic upkeep. Knowing the difference is key to avoiding unnecessary costs and ensuring your home remains in good condition.
Discover your repair obligations and learn when you can legally request a rent reduction for property defects.
Our in-house team
Your first point of contact for immigration matters in Switzerland
Independent Swiss Attorneys
Legal consultations are concluded directly between the client and the independent attorney. Legal Expat
Switzerland does not provide legal services and does not collect legal fees for legal consultations.
Fiona Scherrer
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Family law / Employment law / Tenancy Law
Languages: English, French, German
Matteo Detraz
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Inheritance Law / Employment Law / Family Law
Languages: English, French, German
Fabien Gillioz
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Start a company in Switzerland / Corporate Law
Languages: English, French
Jean-Yves Haussmann
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Start a company / Corporate Law
Languages: English, French
Nicolas Mossaz
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Family Law / Employment Law / Inheritance Law
Languages: English, French
Gabriel Raggenbass
Attorney-at-Law, Geneva Bar
Inheritance Law / Tenancy Law
Languages: English, French
Book a consultation
Book your legal consultation with immigration specialists or independent Swiss attorneys. Our consultation can be made on Zoom or in Our office in Geneva for a flat fee of CHF 300.-.
