# Rental Deposits in Switzerland: What Landlords Need to Know

> Canonical: https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/rent-deposit-switzerland
> Language: en
> Last modified: 2026-11-06

By Flavio Peter, founder of ImmoManage · Updated November 6, 2026

Rental deposits protect landlords against damages and unpaid rent. Strict legal rules apply in Switzerland.

## Maximum amount: 3 months' rent


The rental deposit cannot exceed three months' net rent (CO Art. 257e para. 2).


## Blocked account is mandatory


If the tenant pays cash, the landlord must deposit it in a blocked account in the tenant's name at a Swiss bank.


## Returning the deposit


The bank only releases the deposit with both parties' consent – or based on a payment order or an enforceable court judgment. If the landlord has not legally pursued a claim (debt collection or lawsuit) within one year of the tenancy ending, the tenant can demand the deposit back directly from the bank (Art. 257e para. 3 CO). Recommendation: prepare the final statement promptly after the move-out inspection and release the undisputed portion immediately.


> 💡 **Track deposits centrally with ImmoManage**
>
> Store the deposit amount, blocked account details and due dates directly in the tenant profile.


## Frequently asked questions

**Can I increase the deposit?**

Only when raising rent, with proper notice.

## Related guides

- [Utility Billing in Switzerland: A Landlord's Complete Guide](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/service-charges-switzerland.md)
- [Rent Increases in Switzerland: Rules, Forms and Deadlines](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/rent-increase-switzerland.md)
- [Terminating a Rental Agreement in Switzerland: Deadlines and Forms](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/terminating-a-lease.md)
- [Managing Strata Property in Switzerland: A Complete Guide](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/managing-condominium-ownership.md)
- [Tenant Handover and Move-Out: How to Avoid Disputes](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/tenant-change-handover.md)