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Housing · Switzerland
Updated September 2026

🔑 My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?

Direct answer

First a written demand to the landlord with a deadline (14 days is normal) and your bank details — most deposits come back at this stage. If nothing happens, Schlichtungsbehörde in Mietsachen (ch.ch) is the body that deals with rent and deposit disputes in Switzerland. For advice on what you can claim and what the landlord may deduct, Mieterinnen- und Mieterverband (mieterverband.ch). The last step is a small-claims or rent court, where you can usually go without a lawyer.

In Switzerland the deposit is capped at three months' rent on a blocked account in your name; without a landlord claim it is released one year after you move out.

Call firstSchlichtungsbehörde in Mietsachen
Report toMieterinnen- und Mieterverband
If that failsMietgericht / Bezirksgericht

🗣️ What to say

"My tenancy at [address] ended on [date]. The deposit of €… has not been returned and I have received no itemised deductions. I request the full amount within 14 days to [IBAN]. Otherwise I will take it to Schlichtungsbehörde in Mietsachen."

🪜 Step by step

  1. Write, don't callA dated letter or e-mail with the amount, the end date, your bank details and a 14-day deadline. Keep proof of sending.
  2. Collect evidenceThe signed contract, the move-in and move-out inspection reports, photos with dates, and the proof you paid the deposit.
  3. Ask Mieterinnen- und Mieterverband what appliesWhich deductions are allowed (unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear) and what is not (repainting, normal wear, cleaning that was not agreed).
  4. File with Schlichtungsbehörde in MietsachenThe rent dispute body or deposit scheme handles this without a lawyer and usually within weeks.
  5. Court as last resortSmall-claims procedures exist for exactly this amount range; the landlord usually pays the costs if you win.

📇 All contacts

Schlichtungsbehörde in MietsachenFree, mandatory conciliationWhen the landlord does not pay after the deadline🔗 www.ch.ch/de/wohnen/mieten/schlichtungsbehoerde
Mieterinnen- und MieterverbandAdvice and representation for membersBefore the first letter, to check deductions🔗 www.mieterverband.ch
Mietgericht / BezirksgerichtClaim after failed conciliationLast step🔗 www.ch.ch/de/wohnen/mieten

❓ Frequently asked

How long may the landlord take?

It varies by country, but "a reasonable time" after a final inspection is usually a few weeks; Mieterinnen- und Mieterverband knows the exact rule for Switzerland.

Can the landlord keep it for repainting?

Not for normal wear and tear. Damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent or bills, and cleaning you agreed to do can be deducted — itemised, with receipts.

I have no written contract

You still have a tenancy and still get the deposit back. Bank transfers, messages and witnesses prove the agreement.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Related questions

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