Swiss Passport

Question 94 of 350 · Laws and prohibitions

There are various laws in Switzerland. Which one governs the renting of flats?

In der Schweiz gibt es verschiedene Gesetze. Welches regelt das Mieten von Wohnungen?

Correct answer: A

  1. ACode of Obligations (OR)Obligationenrecht (OR)
  2. BValue Added Tax Act (MWSTG)Mehrwertsteuergesetz (MWSTG)
  3. CCriminal Code (StGB)Strafgesetzbuch (StGB)
  4. DFederal Act on Debt Enforcement and Bankruptcy (SchKG)Bundesgesetz über Schuldbetreibung und Konkurs (SchKG)

Why

Renting is a contract. Contracts are governed by the law of obligations; tenancy law is found there.

Common mistakes

C: Criminal Code (StGB)
The StGB governs criminal offences and punishments, not contracts.
D: Federal Act on Debt Enforcement and Bankruptcy (SchKG)
The SchKG helps to collect debts, for example unpaid rent. It does not govern the tenancy agreement itself.

Topic

Federal Constitution, ZGB, OR, StGB

The constitution of Switzerland is called the Federal Constitution, abbreviated BV. It is the highest law of the country. It contains the fundamental rights and sets out how the state works. The first Federal Constitution dates from 1848; the current one has been in force since 2000. It is sometimes also called Switzerland's Basic Law, but its official name is Federal Constitution.

Having a say: rights and obligations · Laws and prohibitions

Sources

Official question of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.