Apartment handover report Switzerland: checklist & sample template | Immoswipe
By Immoswipe Editorial Team · Last updated: 19 September 2025
Your lease is signed and the move is around the corner. One important step remains, the apartment handover protocol. This document protects both tenants and landlords by recording the condition of the apartment at move-in or move-out. In this guide you will learn what to include, why it matters, plus a practical checklist and a free template.
💡 Tip: Also read our guide Tenancy agreement in Switzerland: what to check to stay on the safe side at move-in.
What is an apartment handover protocol?
The protocol documents the apartment's condition at key handover. It helps avoid disputes later about damage, missing cleaning or unclear agreements.
- Date of handover
- Names of all parties present
- Apartment address
- Condition of all rooms and appliances
- Recorded defects, add photos where possible
- Agreements on remedying defects
- Number of keys handed over
- Signatures of both parties
Checklist: what to check at handover
- Walls, floors, ceilings, stains, cracks, damage
- Windows and doors, function, seals, handles
- Sanitary installations: toilet, shower, washbasin
- Kitchen: hob, oven, fridge, extractor hood
- Heating and hot water
- Electrics: sockets, switches, fuse box
- Washing machine or dryer if any
- Cellar, balcony, outdoor areas
- Number and condition of keys
How to handle defects
If you find damage or wear during the handover, record it in detail in the protocol. This helps ensure you are not held liable later. Insist on including small defects as well.
- Scratches in parquet
- Mould in bathroom or kitchen
- Cracks in walls or ceiling
- Defective appliances such as hob or heating
Who prepares the protocol?
Usually the property manager or the landlord prepares the document. You have the right to add remarks or corrections. You may also bring your own form and compare it.
📄 Download the free template
Get our free apartment handover protocol template. Print it and bring it to the handover.
👉 Download templateSample fields in the protocol
The full table is available in the PDF template. A short extract is shown here:
| Apartment address | ____________________________________ |
| Handover date | ____ / ____ / ______ |
| Persons present | Tenant, property manager, landlord |
FAQ: apartment handover & protocol
1) Is a handover protocol mandatory?
No, it is not mandatory, but we strongly recommend it to avoid later conflicts.
2) What happens if we do not create one?
The condition at move-in is considered accepted, and undiscovered defects might be attributed to you.
3) Can I write defects into the protocol?
Yes. Add your own remarks before signing, and attach photos.
4) Who keeps a copy?
Both tenant and landlord should keep a signed copy. Taking photos is fine as well.
5) May I bring someone to the handover?
Yes, you may bring a companion or expert for support.