Rent new construction
New builds to let in Switzerland
A new build to let gives you the opportunity to be the first tenant in a newly constructed property, and you can expect modern fixtures and fittings and predictable costs. Minergie (Swiss energy certification for construction), good sound insulation and contemporary technical systems in new builds ensure that the properties are comfortable and utility costs are low. You will be on the safe side right from the start of your tenancy with a detailed walk-through checklist documenting the state of the property at move-in and with the protections offered by Switzerland’s clear tenancy laws (Swiss Code of Obligations, OR).
Advantages of a new build at a glance
First occupancy without wear and tear, high standard of living
Energy-efficient construction reduces heating costs and other utility bills
Accessible floor plans and state-of-the-art technical systems in the buildings
Low maintenance costs; any faults will be rectified quickly
Good public transport links and infrastructure in new-build developments
Market overview for new-build flats to let in Switzerland
The housing stock in Switzerland currently comprises 4'840'096 units. Over the last five years, 71'190 new-build flats have been added – equivalent to around 5% of the current stock. The majority of new builds are 3- and 4-room flats; very large units are constructed less frequently. The vacancy rate remains low, at 1.01%. Small flats are slightly more likely to be vacant (for instance, the vacancy rate for 1-room flats is 1.27%) than large ones (5-room flats: 0.72%), highlighting the demand for family-friendly floor plans. The average rent is CHF 1640 per month; a quarter of the properties on offer are priced at CHF 1300 or less, and three quarters at CHF 2070 or less. With 9'051'029 inhabitants (+3.57% in 3 years) and low unemployment (1.47%) in Switzerland, demand for modern new-build rental flats is stable to rising.
Who is a new-build rental property suitable for?
New-build rental flats are suitable for singles and couples looking for comfort and efficiency, families that need 3 to 4 rooms, senior citizens who want accessible living, and expats and commuters looking for an immediate move-in date. They are less suitable for very price-conscious tenants who prioritise the cheapest option – older buildings or properties in less central locations are often less expensive. People who prefer the charm of historic buildings or who want particularly high ceilings are less likely to find what they are looking for in a new build.
What are the costs of renting a new build?
Budget for monthly rent plus utilities (provisional advance payments or a flat rate for heating, hot water, building maintenance). Electricity, internet and parking are usually charged separately. It is standard practice to pay a rental deposit of up to three months’ rent into an escrow account. Rent adjustments are often based on the reference interest rate and the provisions of tenancy law (Swiss Code of Obligations, OR). Taxes: rental costs are a private expense and are not generally tax-deductible; the average tax burden is 12.38% and varies depending on the situation (e.g. single person: 17.6%, married couple with two children: 7.96%).
How to find the right new-build rental flat
Set your budget: rent, utilities, deposit and additional costs.
Check the location: public transport, schools, shopping, commute and quality of the neighbourhood.
Determine the size of flat you need: number of rooms and floor plan to suit your lifestyle.
Compare building standards: Minergie, sound insulation, heating system, fibre broadband.
Review the tenancy agreement: utilities, reference interest rate, notice periods, house rules.
Arrange the viewing and handover: build quality, sunlight, noise, walk-through checklist documenting the state of the property at move-in.