I am moving over to Switzerland for the first time in a few weeks and have been looking online at apartments.

It may be a stupid question but what does the additional expenses in the rent cover? For example I am looking at an apartment for CHF1690 with additional costs of CHF235 leaving a grand total of CHF 1925.

Does the additional cost cover the utility costs such as heating and electricity?

Thanks

Sometimes, but not always. I think ours covers water and heat, but not electricity. It's also (as I understand it) an estimate - so when they assess costs at some point in the year, and you used more water than your neighbors, you get charged more (and vice versa... theoretically).

Also grounds keeping, cleaning, lights in the common areas and sometimes it includes cable TV.

Check out this Thread which has more information.

We just found an apartment and must have visited hundreds (or so it felt). I asked every time what the extra charges included, and most people reacted as if I were asking the stupidest question. Apparently it almost always covers hot water, heating, and extras like the concierge, maintenance, etc. Exceptions must be very rare.