Question 1

Do I need a Betreibungsauskunft to rent in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A Betreibungsauskunft (debt register extract) is required by almost all Swiss landlords. If you've never lived in Switzerland, bring an equivalent document from your home country — Schufa for Germany, a credit report for the UK or USA.

Question 2

What is the income rule for Swiss rentals?

Accepted Answer

Swiss landlords require that your monthly rent does not exceed one-third (33%) of your gross monthly income. For a CHF 2,400/month apartment, you need to show a gross income of at least CHF 7,200/month.

Question 3

Can I find an apartment in Zurich before I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it requires speed and a strong dossier. Apartments disappear within hours. Our Viewing Partner service exists specifically for this — we attend viewings on your behalf and send you a full video report.

Question 4

Can I apply with a B permit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. B permit holders are legally permitted to rent in Switzerland. Some landlords may ask for additional documentation, but this is manageable with the right dossier and cover letter.

Question 5

What if I'm still on probation at my new job?

Accepted Answer

Probation contracts make applications harder but not impossible. Address it directly in your cover letter: explain the company, your role, and when your probation ends. Some landlords will accept a higher deposit or a guarantor.

Question 6

Do Swiss landlords accept English cover letters?

Accepted Answer

Most property managers in Zurich prefer German. Even a professionally written German Anschreiben (cover letter) significantly improves your chances. We write one for every client as part of our Dossier Review.

Question 7

How many apartments should I apply to at once?

Accepted Answer

Apply to as many relevant listings as possible simultaneously. In Zurich, it is common to apply to 15–30 apartments before receiving a positive response.

Question 8

How long does it take to find an apartment in Zurich?

Accepted Answer

On average, 4–8 weeks with an optimized dossier and active applications. Without one, it can take 3–6 months or longer.

Question 9

What documents do I need in my rental dossier?

Accepted Answer

A complete Swiss rental dossier includes: Betreibungsauskunft, last 3 months' pay slips, employment contract or confirmation letter, copy of passport and residence permit, and a German-language cover letter.

Question 10

How does your Full Search Advocacy service work?

Accepted Answer

We actively search listings daily, submit applications in German, attend viewings, and communicate directly with property managers on your behalf. You pay CHF 500 upfront and one month's rent only when you receive the keys.

Question 11

What is a Betreibungsamt?

Accepted Answer

The Betreibungsamt is Switzerland's local debt enforcement office. It maintains the register of debt collection proceedings and issues the Betreibungsauskunft. Every Swiss municipality has one.

Question 12

How do I get a Betreibungsauskunft?

Accepted Answer

Online via betreibungsauszug.ch (3–5 business days, CHF 17) or in person at your local Betreibungsamt (sometimes same-day).

Question 13

Do Swiss apartments come furnished?

Accepted Answer

Almost never. Swiss apartments are unfurnished and typically do not even include built-in wardrobes or light fixtures. Budget for furniture from day one.

Question 14

Is Rentova a real estate agency?

Accepted Answer

No. Rentova is not a licensed real estate agent (Makler) and does not broker between landlord and tenant. We are a rental search consulting service — we help tenants, not landlords.

Question 15

What cities do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We primarily operate in the greater Zurich area. We also support clients in Zug and Basel. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Everything expats ask us about renting in Switzerland

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