Looking for a flat

Flats are scarce, especially in the city. Here you find out where to look and what you need for the application.

In Kanton Luzern there are few free flats. Especially in the city and in the centres. Start early and apply quickly.

Where to look

You find most flats on the internet. Well-known portals are homegate.ch, flatfox.ch and comparis.ch. For the region there is zentralhome.ch from the Luzerner Zeitung.

Newspapers and notices also help. Tell friends and colleagues that you are looking.

Viewing

You register for a viewing (Besichtigung). Be on time and be friendly. Ask questions about rent and additional costs (Nebenkosten).

Application: You need this

For the application you fill in a form. Most landlords also want:

  • Copy of your permit or passport
  • Debt collection extract (Betreibungsauszug, a paper from the debt collection office: it shows if you have debts)
  • Details of your wage, for example pay slip or employment contract
  • Sometimes references (people who know you)

You get the debt collection extract from the debt collection office (Betreibungsamt) of your municipality. It costs something. Send the application quickly, often many people apply.

Deposit (Kaution)

The deposit (Kaution) is a security payment. A maximum of 3 months' rent is allowed. The money goes into a blocked account (Sperrkonto) in your name.

When you move out, you get it back if everything is in order. You do not have the money? Ask the social counselling service (Sozialberatung).

Discrimination

Some landlords reject people because of their origin, name or religion. This is not fair. It still happens.

Do not be discouraged. FABIA advises you for free on discrimination. Also ask FABIA or the social counselling service for help with the search.

What you can do now

  1. Order the debt collection extract from the debt collection office of your municipality.
  2. Make a dossier: permit, pay slip, debt collection extract.
  3. Look on homegate.ch, flatfox.ch and zentralhome.ch. Apply quickly.
  4. Discriminated against? Contact FABIA: 041 360 07 22.

Kanton Luzern, Grüezi-Portal: Wohnung finden (2026-09-21)

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