How do you win a Swiss apartment?

The real rule

Why the Swiss laugh, and what it means if you're new here.

In Swiss cities many people apply for the same flat, so landlords choose by the application file. They often ask for a Betreibungsauszug, an extract from the debt collection register, to see that you pay your bills. As a newcomer, order it early (usually CHF 17), keep your documents in one PDF, and send it the same evening.

The Swiss apartment application

The rule, explained

In Swiss cities many people apply for the same flat. The federal portal ch.ch says landlords often ask for an extract from the debt collection register when they want to be sure you usually pay your bills. You order it from the debt collection office, the Betreibungsamt, of the commune where you live; it usually costs 17 francs plus postage, and the city of Zurich confirms the same price. Order it before you start viewing flats, put everything into one tidy dossier, and send it the same evening.

Sources: ch.ch, Betreibungsregisterauszug bestellen; City of Zurich, Betreibungsauszug; Duden, Betreibung

Questions people ask

How much does a Betreibungsauszug cost?

Usually CHF 17 plus postage (ch.ch; City of Zurich).

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