Your first apartment: key points for a successful start

Anyone who has previously lived with their parents often underestimates the running costs of their own apartment. It is therefore essential to get an overview of the housing market before moving and to calculate the regular expenses realistically. In addition to the rent, there are further monthly fixed costs.

A financial reserve for unexpected additional payments, for example due to rising energy prices, should also be factored in. Utility costs can quickly add up to over CHF 150 per month on top of the rent.

To find out how much rent is actually affordable, a clear budget plan should be drawn up. This will quickly reveal whether your own apartment is financially feasible or whether a shared flat might be the better alternative. Location also plays a decisive role: while only small studio apartments may be affordable in the city centre, a larger apartment on the outskirts may be more financially attractive.

Once you have determined your maximum budget, you can start your search. On official portals such as immoscout24.ch, homegate.ch, newhome.ch and home.ch, you will face plenty of competition. It is better to also spread the word about your apartment search among friends and acquaintances. Many people have found a new apartment through personal contacts. Nevertheless, patience is required. The search can easily take weeks or months.

When signing a tenancy agreement, it is important to check all the contract details carefully. Read our guide on rights and obligations in a tenancy agreement. In shared flats, there is often a main tenant, while new flatmates receive a subletting agreement. An early discussion with the landlord regarding permission to sublet is advisable.

Before moving in, an apartment inspection should be carried out with the landlord. The condition of the apartment is recorded in the handover report. Photographs are a sensible addition to document the condition clearly. The handover report must be signed by both parties. At move-out, it serves as the basis for comparison. Damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear must be borne by the tenant.

In addition to the rent and furnishings, the rental deposit is a further financial challenge when moving into your first apartment. This serves as security for the landlord and typically amounts to up to three months’ net rent. It is deposited in a restricted account and is only returned after the end of the tenancy, provided there are no outstanding claims.

For young tenants, the parents often cover the rental deposit. Alternatively, it is possible to take out rental deposit insurance. Instead of paying in the entire deposit, an annual premium is paid to an insurer. This eases the budget, although the tenant remains liable for the deposit in the event of a claim.

Furnishing your first apartment can be expensive. In addition to basic furniture such as a bed, sofa and table, you should also think about technical devices such as a television, as well as curtains, lighting and household appliances like a microwave or a vacuum cleaner. Plants and decorative elements can also make the apartment cosier. If you want to save money, you can turn to second-hand markets or online classifieds. Another important point is determining the insured sum for your household contents insurance. This should be set realistically to avoid so-called underinsurance, which can lead to considerable financial disadvantages in the event of a claim.

In addition to the rental deposit – which is secured either through a restricted bank account or rental deposit insurance (the latter also incurs annual costs) – insurance should not be neglected. Household contents insurance protects against financial losses from fire, water or burglary and thus safeguards your own possessions. Personal liability insurance is also strongly recommended, as it covers damage to the rental property or to third parties and thus minimises significant financial risks. In certain cases, legal expenses insurance can also be worthwhile, particularly if disputes with the landlord arise.

In addition to hiring a van or engaging a removal company, costs for packing materials and possibly furniture disassembly and assembly also arise. It may also be necessary to apply for a parking permit for the moving day to ensure the smooth delivery of furniture.

After moving in, you must register your new address with the municipality or city administration. Insurance companies, banks, your employer and other important institutions should also be notified of the address change in good time. A postal redirection order can help ensure you do not miss any important mail.

In Switzerland, strict rules apply regarding quiet hours. During the midday break (12–13:00), at night (from 22:00) and on Sundays and public holidays, loud noise should be avoided. In addition, there are often house rules that contain specific regulations on waste disposal, cleaning of the stairwell or general conduct in an apartment building. A good relationship with your neighbours helps to avoid disputes.

Often, not all costs are included in the rent. It should be clarified whether heating costs, hot water and electricity are charged separately or included in the utility costs. A detailed check can prevent high additional payments at the end of the year when the utility bill arrives.

The internet and TV connection should be organised in good time, as activation can take several weeks. Comparing tariffs and minimum contract periods from different providers can help you save money in the long run.

During the tenancy, the tenant is responsible for so-called ‘minor maintenance’. This includes replacing light bulbs, descaling taps and cleaning drains. For larger damage, the landlord must be informed, as unauthorised repairs can lead to problems.

Not every apartment allows pets. Before getting a pet, you should check whether this is permitted under the tenancy agreement. If there is no clear provision, written permission from the landlord should be obtained to avoid later conflicts. You should also bear in mind that veterinary costs, particularly for unexpected medical procedures, can quickly reach high amounts.

Most tenancy agreements have a notice period of three months. If an earlier move-out is desired, the tenant must find a financially capable replacement tenant who is willing to take over the existing lease. This should be well documented and discussed with the landlord.

With careful planning and consideration of all costs, the start in your first apartment can be well secured financially.