When Does the Buyer Receive the Keys?

When key handover takes place

In Switzerland, key handover typically takes place on the day the notarial deed is signed, or on a date agreed between the parties. In some cases — particularly where the seller needs time to vacate the property or where renovation works are to be completed before handover — key handover may be scheduled for a few weeks after the deed is signed.

The date and conditions of key handover should be agreed and recorded in the purchase deed or the reservation agreement. Buyers should confirm the handover date and any conditions (property to be empty, specific items to be left or removed, cleaning standard) before signing the deed.

What happens at handover

At key handover, the seller (or their representative) hands over all keys to the property — front door, apartment door, letterbox, garage, storage room and any other keys. The buyer should verify that all keys are present and that they work.

The buyer and seller (or their representatives) typically conduct a joint inspection of the property at handover to verify its condition and to record any defects or discrepancies from the agreed condition. This inspection should be documented — a handover protocol (procès-verbal de remise) is typically prepared and signed by both parties.

The handover protocol

The handover protocol (procès-verbal de remise) is a written record of the property's condition at the time of handover. It records: the keys handed over; the meter readings (electricity, gas, water) at the time of handover; any defects or damage noted at handover; and any items agreed to be left or removed.

Both parties sign the handover protocol. It is an important document — it establishes the baseline condition of the property at the time of handover and can be used to resolve disputes about defects or damage that arise after handover.

Utility transfers

At handover, the buyer takes over responsibility for utility contracts — electricity, gas, water, internet and any other services. The meter readings recorded in the handover protocol are used to calculate the final bills for the seller and the opening bills for the buyer.

Buyers should contact utility providers promptly after handover to transfer contracts into their name and to set up new accounts. The agent or notary can provide guidance on the relevant utility providers for the specific property.

Key points

• Key handover: typically on deed signing day or agreed date shortly after
• All keys handed over: front door, apartment, letterbox, garage, storage
• Joint inspection at handover — document condition in handover protocol
• Handover protocol signed by both parties — establishes baseline condition
• Meter readings recorded at handover — buyer takes over utility contracts