FAQ: Temporary Rent of Furnished Property in Switzerland

Yes, temporary subletting in Switzerland is permitted, but the landlord must be informed (Art. 262 CO). The landlord can only refuse under specific conditions, for example if there is profit-making involved.

A written rental agreement with clear end date, handover protocol, rules on utilities (electricity, internet, cleaning), fair rent, and proper insurance coverage are essential.

Usually there are two agreements: (1) the rental contract between landlord and tenant, (2) the service contract between landlord and SMART DEPART GmbH. If furniture or items are rented via tapidapp, a third contract is created between tenant and SMART DEPART.

Duration of rental, amount of rent, rules for utilities, detailed furniture inventory, internet and cleaning arrangements, handover protocol and deposit terms.

Risks include contract termination by the landlord for unauthorized subletting, disputes about damages or overpricing, and unclear insurance responsibilities.

Yes, if you are a tenant, you must disclose the subtenant’s name, rental duration and rent amount. The landlord may not face unreasonable disadvantages due to the sublease.

A surcharge of up to 20% on the base rent is allowed if furniture or additional services like internet and cleaning are included.

The tenant pays rent and deposit directly to SMART DEPART GmbH. The first month’s rent covers setup and services. From the second month, SMART DEPART retains 16.7% of the gross rent and transfers the balance to the landlord.

Yes, either as a flat-rate included in rent or billed separately. Expats and business apartment tenants usually prefer all-inclusive packages.

Yes, especially in serviced apartments or business rentals this is common practice. Costs must be specified in the rental agreement.

A flat rent including utilities (electricity, heating, internet) is simplest. For longer rentals, billing based on consumption may also be an option.

Temporary rental is ideal to cover costs during time abroad. Important: landlord approval (if you are a tenant) and a written agreement with furniture inventory.

Typical tenants are expats, exchange students, business travelers, and people in transition (e.g. renovation, separation, relocation).

Through platforms like Homegate, Flatfox, Airbnb or business apartment agencies. Also via universities, expat communities and corporate networks. SMART DEPART uses these channels plus its own network to find qualified tenants.

SMART DEPART carefully screens candidates: interviews, credit checks, employer references, plus Google and social media checks. Usually, up to three suitable tenants are suggested – the landlord makes the final decision.

Subletting: privately rented, usually during the main tenant’s absence. Serviced Apartment: professionally managed, often including cleaning, internet and sometimes reception services.

There is no fixed legal limit. Rentals can last from a few weeks to several years, as long as the contract specifies a clear end date.

SMART DEPART can extend the existing lease or, if necessary, find a new tenant to ensure continuous occupancy.

In Zurich and other Swiss cities, demand for short-term furnished rentals is very high. Longer vacancies are rare. During vacancy, the landlord does not earn rent but also pays nothing for SMART DEPART services.

Fixed-term contracts generally cannot be terminated early. According to Art. 266g CO, only in extraordinary circumstances. SMART DEPART mediates and, if needed, finds a replacement tenant.

Fixed-term leases can only be terminated for important reasons. SMART DEPART mediates between landlord and tenant and helps find a new solution if required.

Require a deposit of 1–2 months’ rent, a detailed handover protocol with photos, and tenant liability insurance.

Repairs or replacement of household appliances are generally the landlord’s responsibility. SMART DEPART coordinates with landlord or property management.

Yes, rental income is taxable, but expenses such as rent you continue to pay as a main tenant are deductible. This usually balances out, resulting in no additional tax burden.

The first month’s rent, kept by SMART DEPART, covers initial cleaning. End-of-stay cleaning is paid by the tenant.

Yes, SMART DEPART works with professional cleaning companies and can organize ongoing cleaning services if required.

SMART DEPART charges a flat fee of CHF 1,500, which covers advertising, tenant screening, documentation and handover.

No, this is not recommended due to liability risks and higher administrative effort compared to apartment rentals.