Additional Costs in Switzerland — The Biggest Blind Spot When Apartment Hunting
Most apartment hunters only compare the net rent. But additional costs (Nebenkosten) can change the real price by CHF 150–400 per month. If you don't check before signing, you could be overpaying for years.
On-account vs. flat-rate — a difference worth thousands
On-account (Akonto)
You pay an estimated amount monthly. An annual settlement determines the actual costs.
⚠ Risk: additional payment if real costs are higher
✓ Benefit: refund if costs are lower
Flat-rate (Pauschal)
You pay a fixed amount monthly. No settlement, regardless of actual costs.
✓ Benefit: predictability, no surprises
! But: landlords often calculate generously in their favour
Red flag: If the listing doesn't mention additional costs at all — ask immediately! CHF 150–400 extra per month is possible on top of the listed price.
What are normal additional costs?
| Apartment type | Additional costs per month |
|---|---|
| 1–2 rooms | CHF 100–180 |
| 3–4 rooms | CHF 200–350 |
| 5+ rooms | CHF 300–500 |
| Detached house | CHF 350–750 |
Rule of thumb: Additional costs should be roughly 15–25% of the net rent.
Tip: Older buildings with oil heating have significantly higher costs than new builds with heat pumps. Always ask about the heating type — it reveals a lot about real costs.
What's included — and what's not
Typically included: heating, hot water, common area electricity, janitor, waste disposal, water.
Typically not included: apartment electricity (CHF 40–100/month), internet (CHF 40–80/month), parking (CHF 80–250/month), Serafe TV fee (CHF 28/month).
Get the additional costs checked — before you sign
FairRent analyses not just the rent but the entire cost situation.
Analyse listing now — from CHF 4.90 →Checklist before signing
- On-account or flat-rate? Clarify in the contract
- Compare cost amount with benchmarks for apartment size
- Ask what exactly is included in the costs
- Ask about parking costs separately
- Consider heating type and building age
- Request the last cost settlement from the landlord
- Budget separately for electricity, internet, Serafe