House rules and neighbours

In Switzerland there are rules for living together in a building. Here you find out the most important ones and how to avoid conflicts.

Almost every building has house rules (Hausordnung). This is a list of rules. It applies if it is mentioned in the rental contract.

It regulates quiet hours, the laundry room and shared rooms.

Quiet hours

From 10 pm it is night-time quiet (Nachtruhe). Then please be quiet: no loud music, no vacuuming. Often there is also quiet time at midday and on Sunday.

Look at your house rules. A short shower after 10 pm is allowed.

Laundry room

Many buildings have a shared laundry room (Waschküche). There is a schedule: every flat has a day or a time.

Keep to your time. Clean the machine after washing.

Waste

Waste goes into official bags or containers. In many municipalities you need a fee bag (Gebührensack). You sort paper, glass and cardboard.

Ask the municipality for the waste calendar (Abfallkalender).

Greeting

In Switzerland people greet their neighbours: "Grüezi" or "Hallo". Introduce yourself briefly when you move in. This helps with living together.

Conflicts with neighbours

Something bothers you? First talk calmly to the neighbour. Find a good moment.

This does not help? Write down the incidents with the date. Then report it in writing to the landlord.

In case of violence or threats, call the police: 117.

What you can do now

  1. Read your house rules. Ask the landlord if you do not have them.
  2. Introduce yourself to your neighbours.
  3. Ask the municipality for the waste calendar.
  4. In case of conflict: Talk first, then write to the landlord.

Mieterinnen- und Mieterverband Schweiz, Nachbarschaft und Hausordnung (2026-09-21)

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