Insurance when moving in Switzerland – household contents, liability and additional cover
By Immoswipe Editorial Team · Last updated: September 20, 2025
When moving in Switzerland, most people first think about costs, cleaning, and logistics. One important point is often overlooked: moving insurance. Who is responsible if furniture is damaged or a helper gets injured? With the right coverage, you avoid unexpected expenses.
You can find all tasks before, during, and after your move here: Plan your move in Switzerland.
Household Contents Insurance: Protecting your belongings
Household contents insurance covers damages to your furniture, electronics, and personal items – also during a move. Risks such as fire, water, theft, or glass breakage are usually included. Important: self-inflicted transport damages are generally not covered.
If you are moving into a larger apartment, review the sum insured. With underinsurance, the insurer only reimburses part of the costs. More information can be found at the Comparis household insurance comparison.
Personal Liability: if you or helpers cause damage
Personal liability insurance is especially important when moving. It covers costs if you or voluntary helpers cause damages to third parties, e.g., scratches in the stairwell or damage to the floor in the rental property.
Make sure your policy includes rental property damage. Damages beyond normal wear and tear can be very expensive. Helpful resources are available at the Swiss Tenants' Association and in our guide Cleaning and Handover.
Extra Insurance: when does it make sense?
Some moving companies offer special transport or extra insurance. This is worthwhile if you are transporting valuable furniture, art, or expensive electronics.
Costs are typically CHF 100–300 depending on coverage. Check in advance whether the policy includes damages from breakage, loss, or improper handling. See also our guide Moving Costs Switzerland for budget planning tips.
💬 Immoswipe Tip
If you hire a moving company, clarify exactly what insurance is included in the price. Reliable providers include basic coverage, while extra protection costs extra. Always request written terms and check whether a handover guarantee is included.
Which insurance covers what? Real-life examples
- Helper drops TV: Damages to your own items → only extra insurance covers this.
- Scratches in stairwell: Liability covers rental property damages if included.
- Moving company damages furniture: Basic company coverage applies, extra insurance recommended for expensive items.
- Theft during move: Household contents insurance covers it if “simple theft away from home” is included.
Saving on moving insurance: 4 tips
- Review your existing policies – often more is covered than you think.
- Avoid duplicate coverage if the moving company already offers transport insurance.
- Use bundle discounts (household + liability in one package).
- Negotiate quotes with moving companies – extra cover can be cheaper if you compare providers.
FAQ: Moving insurance in Switzerland
Does my household contents insurance cover damages during a move?
Yes, but only for insured risks such as fire or theft. Self-caused transport damages are usually excluded.
Does liability insurance cover damages caused by helpers?
Yes, liability insurance covers damages to third parties caused by you or helpers – rental property coverage is essential.
Do I need extra moving insurance?
Not necessarily. It makes sense if you are transporting valuable furniture, artwork, or expensive electronics.
Am I covered if I move with friends?
Yes, but only if your liability policy includes rental property damages. For your own items, only extra insurance applies.
What is the difference between household contents and transport insurance?
Household contents covers your belongings against general risks like fire or theft, while transport insurance specifically covers moving damages.