Hi all,

Could someone explain what are the rules for subletting, how does sharing work, who owns the lease etc...Is this common to do in Switzerland? Any experiences (good or bad to share? ;-))
Thanks

Going on my personal experience alone, it's usually OK to sublet your appartment to someone if you're also living there, ie, you find a room-mate. I don't know the rules and have no idea how it works if you're not living there.

Most landlords expect you to notify them and don't mind too much so long as your name is on the contract and you're willing to be responsible for their behaviour, bills, etc.

Tread carefully though, as Landlords are a fussy bunch. It might be prudent to ask your neighbours how they approach the issue.

It'd be foolish not to agree to some kind of written contract with the person you're subletting to. I've no idea if these agreements hold any water legally (I suspect not) so chose your tenant carefully.

Groundrules should be established with your new 'pal': cleaning rota, shopping expenses, extra service costs etc. Be explicit from the beginning and there'll be no complications.

Suggest a trial period of co-habitation: S/He could be the grooviest person on the planet for the first few days, until you find they don't do any cleaning/smoke crack/collect knives. You need to be able to say "this isn't working".

Also write a contract. Even if it has no worth, it'll prove intent. Include a notice period for when either of you want to escape the contract. Two to three months should suffice.

You don't *have* to tell your landlord, of course. However, it makes things tricky if any legal matters arise, or post is to be delivered, or neighbours become nosey.

If you're new to your appartment/home, leave it a few months before telling the landlord you're introducing someone new. After three months it's a lot harder for him to object, especially if you've paid your bills in full and have become part of the scenery.

Just be cautious: you're responsible when/if the mud hits the fan, so chose your 'partner' wisely: ask lots of questions, be critical and make sure they stump up their share of the deposit, plus advanced rental fees. Don't be left holding the baby!

Thanks for the advice!

Rent is quite expensive in Zurich and I'm looking at different options!