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Defined term
Rent increase (Mietzinserhöhung).
Mietzinserhöhung · Hausse de loyer · Aumento di pigione
Rent increase announced by the landlord, contestable within 30 days.
A rent increase must be announced on an official form, at least 10 days before the notice period of the next termination date. It must be justified. Typical reasons:
- Higher reference interest rate: when the mortgage reference rate rises, an increase of up to 3.5% per 0.25% rise is allowed. - General cost increases (caretaker, insurance) - Value-enhancing investments (renovation): part of the cost can be passed on to the rent. - Prevailing local rents: adjustment to the Mieterspiegel
Contesting it: within 30 days of receipt, file with the conciliation authority. The old rent applies during the dispute.
Related terms
Mieterspiegel (rental price reference)
Statistical reference for prevailing rental prices by neighbourhood and apartment type.
Mieterverband (Swiss Tenants' Association)
Swiss tenant protection organisation: advice, legal protection and representation in rental disputes.
Stepped rent (Staffelmiete)
Lease with pre-agreed annual rent increases. No negotiation, no challenge.