Often required by the agency
Personal liability (RC privée)
Covers the damage you cause to others, including to the flat you rent.
Strongly recommended
Household insurance
Protects your belongings: theft, fire, water damage, broken glass.
Up to 3 months' rent
Rent deposit
On a blocked account in your name, or replaced by a guarantee from a specialist company.
Compare
Household + personal liability: often one contract
Most insurers sell both together, for less. Compare in two minutes, then send the certificate to your agency.
Rent deposit
Block 3 months' rent, or pay for a guarantee?
For a rent of CHF 2,500, the agency can ask for up to CHF 7,500 blocked. If you don't want to tie up that money, a guarantee company stands surety for you in return for an annual premium.
Option 1: deposit account
You pay the amount into a blocked account in your name. You get it back at the end of the lease, with interest.
Option 2: guarantee without deposit
You pay a premium every year and your money stays available. Not refundable at the end.
Leaving before the end of the lease?
In Switzerland, you can get out early by presenting a solvent replacement tenant ready to take over the lease on the same terms. Otherwise you owe the rent until the end date.
Still looking for a flat?
Rent deposit: maximum 3 months' rent (art. 257e of the Swiss Code of Obligations). Indicative information. Some links are partner links.