Updated: October 2026Editorial team: Umzugsexpress GmbHTeam: 17 years in moving and clearance
In Switzerland the rent deposit sits in a blocked account or with a deposit insurer. After moving out you want the money back quickly – here is how.
In short
The bank pays out the rent deposit when you and the landlord agree. If the landlord has not asserted a legal claim within one year of the end of the tenancy, you get the deposit back without their consent – including interest.
Where is the deposit held?
For flats the landlord may request at most three months’ rent as security. The money must be deposited in a savings account or deposit in the tenant’s name. Alternatively there are rent deposit insurances.
Release after moving out
The bank pays out the deposit when both parties agree. If the landlord has not asserted a legal claim within one year of the end of the tenancy, you can request repayment without their consent.
How to speed up repayment
- Hand over the flat clean and completely cleared
- Check the handover report carefully and only sign what is correct
- After a defect-free handover, ask the landlord in writing to release the deposit
- Provide your bank details for the payout
If defects are found
The landlord must report defects promptly. You are not liable for normal wear and tear. In case of disagreement, the conciliation authority for tenancy matters can help – proceedings are usually free of charge.
Situation and next step
| Situation | What you do |
|---|---|
| Handover without defects | Ask the landlord in writing to release it, give your bank details |
| Minor defects, agreement | Record the amount in writing, have the rest released |
| Dispute about damage | Contact the conciliation authority for tenancy matters |
| No reaction from the landlord | After one year without debt enforcement or lawsuit, request payout from the bank |
| Deposit insurance | Inform the insurer of the end of the lease, terminate the policy |
Template letter for the release
“Dear Sir or Madam, the flat at [address] was handed over without objection on [date]. Please release the rent deposit held in account [number] at [bank] and arrange payment to my account [IBAN]. Yours faithfully”
Frequently asked questions
Do I get interest on the deposit?
Yes. The deposit is held in a savings account in your name; the interest belongs to you.
May I offset the deposit against the last rent?
No. The deposit serves as security until after the handover; offsetting it unilaterally is not permitted.
Related services
- Move-out cleaning – Move and final cleaning combined – with handover guarantee.
- End-of-tenancy cleaning – Cleaning only, even if you move yourself.
- Apartment clearance – Empty and swept clean on the agreed handover date.