What to Check Before Buying an Apartment in Switzerland

Legal checks

Land register extract: obtain and review the extract for the specific apartment. Verify the current owner, any mortgages or charges to be discharged, and any easements or restrictions. PPE regulations: review the règlement de copropriété for restrictions on use, renovation rules and any provisions that could affect your enjoyment of the apartment. Lex Weber status: verify whether the apartment is classified as a primary or secondary residence — this affects your ability to use it as a holiday home. Lex Koller status: if you are a non-resident foreign buyer, verify that the apartment is Foreign Buyer Eligible.

Financial checks

Service charge accounts: review the last 2–3 years of service charge accounts to understand the level of charges and any trends. Renovation fund: check the balance of the renovation fund — a well-funded fund is a positive indicator. Meeting minutes: review the minutes of the last 2–3 annual general meetings to identify any planned major works, disputes or financial issues. Outstanding charges: verify that there are no outstanding service charges or special assessments that will become the buyer's liability after completion.

Physical checks

Building condition: assess the overall condition of the building — facade, roof, common areas, lifts. A well-maintained building is a positive indicator. Apartment condition: assess the condition of the apartment itself — floors, walls, ceilings, kitchen, bathrooms, windows. Identify any renovation requirements and budget accordingly. Moisture and damp: check for signs of moisture, damp or mould — particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and basement areas. Noise: visit the apartment at different times of day to assess noise levels from neighbours, traffic and any nearby commercial or industrial activity.

Practical checks

Parking: verify the availability and ownership of parking spaces — are they included in the sale, or are they separately owned or rented? Storage: verify the availability of a cellar or storage space. Lift: if the building has a lift, verify its condition and maintenance record. Broadband and connectivity: verify the availability of high-speed internet and mobile coverage. Energy performance: review the building's energy performance certificate (certificat énergétique cantonal des bâtiments — CECB) to understand energy efficiency and likely utility costs.

Key points

• Legal: land register extract, PPE regulations, Lex Weber status, Lex Koller eligibility
• Financial: service charge accounts, renovation fund balance, meeting minutes, outstanding charges
• Physical: building condition, apartment condition, moisture/damp, noise levels
• Practical: parking, storage, lift, broadband, energy performance certificate
• Review all documentation before signing the reservation agreement