Hi there! If you’re anything like me and have moved from one rented flat to another in the classic expat style, you know it can already feel like a production. Now add Geneva into the mix, and apartment handovers can feel like a full-blown performance: you, the real estate management (régie), a clipboard, a flashlight, and a bunch of slightly confusing rules. Don’t worry — I’ve been through it, and it’s really not as scary as it seems. Let’s break it all down so you can tackle your next move like a pro.

Looking for a new apartment? Here’s our guide to how to get started!

1️⃣ What Is a Handover?

In Geneva, an apartment handover (or “état des lieux”) is the formal check-in or check-out process where you and the régie inspect the apartment together. Think of it as a very serious “let’s see if you’ve treated this place like a palace or a hurricane passed through.”

You’ll go through the entire apartment — walls, floors, appliances, and even the tiniest cupboard corners — and both parties will sign a document noting the condition. This document becomes the official record for your deposit.

2️⃣ Before the Handover: Prep Like a Pro

On the whole, the overarching principle to keep in mind at all times is that tenants are responsible for the “ordinary maintenance” of the place they are renting. Which means…

Clean, clean, clean.
Clean everything. Floors, bathroom, kitchen (aka oven and especially the exhaust hood over the stove – that one always get inspected and needs to be squeaky clean), and corners. Hiring a professional cleaning service isn’t uncommon, especially if you want to avoid disputes.

Here are some recommendations given by local expats:

• Movu, they will provide with multiple quotes not only for cleaning but also for moving services.
• Aitor, individual handyman and cleaner.

Good To Know: Depending on the size and condition of your apartment, cleaning services usually cost around 400–600 CHF or more. It’s also good to keep in mind that using a cleaning service doesn’t automatically guarantee a passed inspection, as the final responsibility still lies with the tenant aka you.

Fix minor damage.
Small scratches, loose handles, holes in the wall (from frames) or chipped paint — if it’s your fault, either fix it or be prepared to cover it. For big repairs, the landlord usually handles it, but check your rental contract and insurance!.

Read about finding a plumber or handyman here

DOCUMENT. EVERYTHING.
It’s really important to take photos of the apartment both before you move in (during the pre-inspection) and after you move out (during the end-of-lease inspection), ideally with timestamps (!!). This simple step can make a big difference and help protect you if there’s ever a disagreement about damage that wasn’t your responsibility.

Good to Know: Even if no major issues are raised by the régie during the handover, it’s important to note that this doesn’t always mean everything is fully settled. New tenants (or the landlord if they happen to be the ones taking over from you) may still notice issues later on, which could result in additional costs for you. In that case, you can of course challenge it with the régie, and the matter is usually resolved through discussion and negotiation, hence the importance of pictures BEFORE + AFTER with time stamp. It bears repeating: regardless of what is dully picked up and notified in writing at the handover, you (the exiting tenant) in the eye of the law remain liable for any shortcoming in the general state of the place.

Check the keys. 

Make sure all keys, remote controls, and fobs are accounted for — nothing worse than a missing mailbox key after you’ve moved out (replacing as set of keys can prove a very expensive endeavour).

Retrieve your incoming handover.

Remember that handover document that the régie or, sometimes, the departing tenant you took over from? Make sure to have it handy with you for the inspection as it could help dissipate any doubt about items that were already damaged (or simply didn’t exist like that bedroom door key that never existed) instantly during inspection.

3️⃣ During the Handover

Be thorough, but polite.
Walk through each room with the régie and check off items on the état des lieux. Test the taps, flush the toilet, turn on appliances. Régies appreciate it when you’re cooperative, not defensive.

Test everything.

Taps, toilets, sockets, heating, etc.

Stay calm.
Régies have a tendency of being (very) nitpicky. Take a deep breath. Remember, in most cases, minor imperfections are normal and expected.

4️⃣ Local Tips for Geneva

• Schedule it wisely. Handover appointments can take 30–60 minutes, depending on the apartment size. Don’t rush it.
• Bring your own checklist (better still – your incoming handover document) Even if the régie has one, having your own notes helps you spot things they might miss.
• Know your deposit rules. In Geneva, landlords typically have one month to return your deposit after the handover, minus any documented deductions for damage.
• Inspect shared areas. If your apartment comes with a cellar, garage, or laundry room, check these too. Problems here can affect your deposit.

5️⃣ Common Handover Pitfalls

• Forgetting small damages — even a tiny hole in the wall or a cracked tile can cost money if not documented.
• Not cleaning properly — Swiss landlords really do value cleanliness and will have no qualms calling a specialist and send you the invoice.
• Losing track of keys or paperwork — always double-check before leaving.
• Miscommunication — if you notice an issue after the handover, address it immediately. Waiting too long can make things tricky and in most cases the régie will try to ensure a smooth transition for all involved, so talk to them!

Apartment handovers in Geneva may feel like a formal ceremony with more paperwork than you expected, but they’re manageable. Be prepared, stay organized, and approach it with a sense of humor — most régimes just want a tidy apartment and a proper record.

Smooth handover = stress-free deposit return. And honestly, that’s something worth celebrating.