Subletting and Temporary Housing
How subletting and temporary housing work in Zurich: the Untermiete rules, the 20 percent furnished cap, and how to find a sublet while you search safely.
Key Takeaways
- You may sublet only after informing your landlord, who can refuse only on legitimate grounds.
- You cannot profit from a sublet, though furnished flats allow a surcharge of up to 20 percent.
- Always put a sublet agreement in writing with rent, duration and a furniture inventory to protect both sides.
Subletting solves two common newcomer problems: finding somewhere to live while you hunt for a permanent flat, and not losing your apartment during a temporary absence. Switzerland permits subletting under clear, fair rules, and temporary furnished options can bridge the gap on arrival. Knowing how it all works keeps you housed and on the right side of your contract.
The rules of subletting (Untermiete)
You may sublet your flat, the Untermiete (subletting), but you must inform your landlord and get their agreement on the terms. The landlord can refuse only on legitimate grounds, such as the sublet rent being abusive or the arrangement causing them disadvantage. As the main tenant you remain responsible to the landlord for the flat and the rent.
You cannot profit
Subletting is not a money-maker. You may only charge the sublet tenant what you yourself pay, except that a furnished flat may carry a surcharge of up to 20 percent to cover wear on the furnishings. Charging an inflated sublet rent is a valid reason for the landlord to refuse, so keep the figures fair and transparent.
Subletting while you search
Renting a room or a short-term sublet is one of the best ways to land in Zurich without a permanent flat. A temporary WG (shared flat) room, a sublet from someone travelling, or a furnished short-let gives you a registered address and breathing room to conduct your search properly rather than signing the first thing you see.
Furnished and serviced options
For a soft landing, furnished and serviced apartments and business-stay providers offer ready-to-live spaces by the month, more costly than a normal lease but flexible and immediate. They suit newcomers in their first weeks, those on assignment, or anyone needing a no-fuss base while sorting out a longer-term home.
Protect yourself in either role
Whether you sublet your flat or take a sublet, put the agreement in writing, covering rent, duration, deposit and the inventory of any furniture, and document the flat's condition with a protocol and photos. A clear written sublet agreement protects both parties and prevents disputes over money, damage or the end date.
Keeping your flat during an absence
If you go abroad temporarily and want to keep your Zurich flat, a sublet lets you do so legitimately, provided you inform your landlord and follow the rules. It is far better than giving notice and facing the brutal market again on your return, but always secure written landlord agreement first.
Subletting and temporary housing give newcomers flexibility that the tight permanent market otherwise lacks, whether you are landing softly while you search or safeguarding a flat during time away. Follow the rules, inform your landlord, keep the rent fair, and put everything in writing, and these arrangements become a reliable tool rather than a risk.