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For one and the same dwelling, owners and property managers often receive numerous applications. Therefore, a well-prepared file constitutes a decisive asset to distinguish yourself among the other prospective tenants. But which documents should you provide to rent an apartment? Which items should you attach to your file?


  • Identification documents prove your identity and your right of residence.
  • Financial supporting documents attest to your solvency and your economic stability.
  • Additional documents highlight your profile and strengthen the credibility of your application.

Identification and personal-status documents

Property managers and owners must ensure that each applicant is legally authorised to reside in Switzerland. Identification documents therefore constitute the first essential step in any rental application.

Official identity document

Each tenant or adult co-tenant must provide a copy of an official identity document, valid, whether it is the identity card or the passport.


This copy allows the request to be authenticated and helps avoid any error due to identical names. If several people occupy the dwelling, the property manager will require the documents of each one of them.

Residence permit

Be aware that foreign nationals must attach a copy of their valid residence permit:


  • Permit B: long-term residence, often for established residents.
  • Permit C: permanent residence permit.
  • Permit L: short-term residence.
  • Permit G: cross-border commuter.

If this is your case, the property manager or the landlord is obliged to check the validity of your permit, in particular to ensure that you are indeed authorised to live in Switzerland or to carry out an activity there.

Certificate of domicile or certificate of no debt collection

The certificate from the Debt Collection Office, also called an extract from the debt collection register, is an essential document if you wish to rent an apartment in Switzerland. Indeed, it informs your future landlord about your financial situation and any debts.


Attention, because the document must be less than three months old. In the majority of cases, the property manager requires it to be free of any collection proceedings. If debts are mentioned, it is possible to attach an explanation or proof of settlement.


Good to know: in certain cantons such as Zurich or Basel, but also in large cities such as Geneva or Lausanne, an extract from the criminal record may also be requested.


Proof of financial solvency

Next, your future landlord seeks to ensure that you will be able to pay your rent regularly, which is why you must justify your financial situation.

Payslips or proof of income

First of all, you must be able to provide your last 3 payslips. These allow the property manager to assess your monthly income and its regularity.


If you have just been hired, you can replace these payslips with a copy of the employment contract, mentioning the gross salary and the duration of the contract.


Are you self-employed? In that case, you must provide the latest tax return or the accounting statements of the previous year. Some property managers also accept a statement from your accountant confirming your net income.

Household budget

In Switzerland, property managers apply the rule according to which the monthly rent must not exceed 25 to 33% of the household’s net income. This calculation takes into account the total income of all persons listed on the rental agreement.


Therefore, we advise you to attach a clear summary of your income to facilitate the reading of your file and to reassure your landlord about your ability to cover the rental costs.

Certificate of civil liability insurance (RC)

Although not mandatory for the application, private civil liability insurance is required before the lease is signed. In the event of damage caused to the dwelling or to third parties, this insurance takes over.


Providing a civil liability insurance certificate demonstrates your seriousness and your sense of responsibility. If you do not yet have this insurance, mention that you plan to take it out before moving in.


Additional information

These items are not mandatory, but may play a key role in the final selection.

Duly completed application form

Most property managers offer a standard form to be completed. It includes your contact details, your professional situation, the number of occupants, as well as questions about the presence of animals or vehicles.


Take the time to fill in each field legibly and to verify that the information is consistent with the supporting documents.

Cover letter

A cover letter can make the difference when facing applications similar to yours. Taking the time to introduce yourself, and possibly the other members of your household, can make all the difference.


We recommend mentioning the desired move-in date, indicating your professional situation and, if applicable, speaking about your appreciation of the neighbourhood or the environment.

Certificate from the former landlord

If you have already occupied a dwelling in Switzerland, it is recommended to attach a reference from your former landlord confirming that:


  • the rent has always been paid on time,
  • no complaints or damage have been observed,
  • the dwelling was returned in good condition.

This document serves as proof of your reliability and exemplary behaviour as a tenant.

Information about pets

If you have a pet, it is preferable to mention it! Indicate its species, size and breed, and specify that it is trained and clean. Including a photo can sometimes work in your favour.


But keep in mind that certain co-ownerships or building regulations impose restrictions: check this point before the visit or before submitting your application.


Conclusion

Finally, be aware that a rejection does not necessarily mean that your file is insufficient. The market is often saturated, especially in large cities! You can ask, tactfully, for the reasons for the refusal in order to improve your next applications. Moreover, keep your file ready to be sent: this will save you valuable time for the next opportunity.


Are you looking for your future apartment?
dreamo.ch facilitates your rental procedures by guiding you through the requirements of the Swiss market and helping you prepare a solid and convincing file to maximise your chances of obtaining the desired dwelling.