There are various laws in Switzerland. Which one governs the renting of flats?
In der Schweiz gibt es verschiedene Gesetze. Welches regelt das Mieten von Wohnungen?
Correct answer: A
- A Code of Obligations (OR)Obligationenrecht (OR)
- B Value Added Tax Act (MWSTG)Mehrwertsteuergesetz (MWSTG)
- C Criminal Code (StGB)Strafgesetzbuch (StGB)
- D Federal Act on Debt Enforcement and Bankruptcy (SchKG)Bundesgesetz über Schuldbetreibung und Konkurs (SchKG)
Why
Renting is a contract. Contracts are governed by the law of obligations; tenancy law is found there.
Common mistakes
- C: Criminal Code (StGB)
- The StGB governs criminal offences and punishments, not contracts.
- D: Federal Act on Debt Enforcement and Bankruptcy (SchKG)
- The SchKG helps to collect debts, for example unpaid rent. It does not govern the tenancy agreement itself.
Topic
Federal Constitution, ZGB, OR, StGB
The constitution of Switzerland is called the Federal Constitution, abbreviated BV. It is the highest law of the country. It contains the fundamental rights and sets out how the state works. The first Federal Constitution dates from 1848; the current one has been in force since 2000. It is sometimes also called Switzerland's Basic Law, but its official name is Federal Constitution.
Having a say: rights and obligations
Laws and prohibitions
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 94 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.