# Tenant Handover and Move-Out: How to Avoid Disputes

> Canonical: https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/tenant-change-handover
> Language: en
> Last modified: 2026-08-06

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

When a tenant moves out, the handover inspection often decides whether there's a dispute over damages and the deposit. Here's how to get it right.

## Duty to mitigate damages


If a tenant terminates early, they only owe rent until the next ordinary date if the landlord makes reasonable efforts to re-let the unit (CO Art. 264).


## The handover protocol


- Meter readings (water, electricity, heating) with date
- Condition of each room: floors, walls, fixtures
- Number of keys handed over
- Defects noted, documented with photos
- Both parties' signatures


## Normal wear or damage?


Only wear that exceeds the fixture's average lifespan counts as damage chargeable to the tenant.


> **Important**
>
> Without a signed protocol documenting defects, deducting repair costs from the deposit is hard to justify.


> 💡 **Digital handover protocols with ImmoManage**
>
> Create the protocol directly on a tablet, with photos, meter readings and both signatures. Compare move-in and move-out condition side by side.


## Frequently asked questions

**Do I have to create a handover protocol?**

Not legally required, but strongly recommended — without one, damage is hard to prove in a dispute.

**Can I reject a prospective successor tenant?**

Only for objective reasons such as insufficient creditworthiness. An unjustified rejection may breach the duty to mitigate damages.

## 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)
- [Rental Deposits in Switzerland: What Landlords Need to Know](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/rent-deposit-switzerland.md)
- [Managing Strata Property in Switzerland: A Complete Guide](https://www.immo-manage.ch/en/guides/managing-condominium-ownership.md)