Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can appeal the rent increase to the arbitration authority within 30 days of receiving the letter from your landlord. See the appeal instructions on the rent adjustment form.

It’s impossible to say at this point. The reference interest rate is announced quarterly by the Federal Office for Housing.
Experts assume that the reference interest rate will continue to rise over the next few years.

Switzerland’s Federal Office for Housing publishes its reference interest rate quarterly, every 1 March, 1 June, 1 September and 1 December.

Any rent adjustment is regulated by law so it can only happen if the necessary requirements are met. As tenancy agreements for tenants are based on different conditions (e.g. reference interest rate), the potential for adjustments and the amount will also vary. 
For example, if different notice periods are agreed, there may also be different dates for rent adjustments.

Inflation is determined using the National Consumer Price Index. The starting point is the index indicated in the tenancy agreement or as known at the time of the last rent adjustment. This is then compared to the new index.

Cost increases include any increases to costs for the operation, maintenance and management of the rental property. In practice, flat rates are used.

No, it can vary due to the basis for calculation.

You can notify us of any defects in a new-build property in writing within 14 days of moving in. If you discover any other defects or damage after this period has passed, please always report them to us immediately using the contact form or by emailing service@livit.ch and include your address.

Rent reductions granted because of a defect or damage are governed by Swiss tenancy law. Please note that such claims commence from the date the landlord becomes aware of the defect. Hence, please notify us of any defects and damage without delay using the contact form or by emailing service@livit.ch and include your address.

Damage must be reported immediately after being discovered. This applies in particular to damage caused by natural events (e.g. hail, storms), water damage, mould, etc. The best way of submitting the damage report is by using the contact form or by emailing service@livit.ch.