How Much Does a Move-Out Cleaning Cost in Switzerland?
The cost of a move-out cleaning (Umzugsreinigung) in Switzerland varies depending on the size of the apartment, its condition, and the region. In this guide, you will find current 2026 prices, detailed cost tables by canton, and practical tips on how to save money.
Important for expats: In Switzerland, tenants are legally required to return the apartment in a thoroughly cleaned state (not just "broom-clean"). Under Swiss tenancy law (Mietrecht, Art. 267 OR), failing to meet cleaning standards can result in deductions from your rental deposit (Kaution). A professional cleaning with a handover guarantee (Abnahmegarantie) is the safest way to protect your deposit.
Average Prices 2026
| Apartment Size | Approx. Area | Price Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-room apartment | 25–35 m² | CHF 250 – 400 | 2–3 hours |
| 1.5-room apartment | 35–45 m² | CHF 300 – 450 | 2.5–3.5 hours |
| 2-room apartment | 45–55 m² | CHF 350 – 550 | 3–4 hours |
| 2.5-room apartment | 55–65 m² | CHF 400 – 600 | 3.5–4.5 hours |
| 3-room apartment | 65–80 m² | CHF 450 – 700 | 4–5 hours |
| 3.5-room apartment | 80–95 m² | CHF 550 – 800 | 4.5–6 hours |
| 4-room apartment | 95–110 m² | CHF 600 – 900 | 5–7 hours |
| 4.5-room apartment | 110–130 m² | CHF 700 – 1'000 | 6–8 hours |
| 5+ room apartment | 130+ m² | CHF 800 – 1'400 | 7–10 hours |
Tip: Most cleaning companies charge between CHF 2.50 and CHF 4.50 per square metre. Always ask for a fixed price (Festpreis) rather than an hourly rate — this way you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Price Differences by Canton
Cleaning costs vary considerably by region. In urban areas like Zurich and Basel, wages and therefore prices are higher than in rural cantons.
| Canton | Price per m² | 3-room apt. (approx. 75 m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Zurich | CHF 3.50 – 4.50 | CHF 550 – 750 |
| Basel-Stadt | CHF 3.00 – 4.00 | CHF 500 – 700 |
| Bern | CHF 2.80 – 3.80 | CHF 450 – 650 |
| Lucerne | CHF 2.80 – 3.80 | CHF 450 – 650 |
| Aargau | CHF 2.50 – 3.50 | CHF 400 – 600 |
| Solothurn | CHF 2.50 – 3.50 | CHF 400 – 600 |
| Zug | CHF 3.20 – 4.20 | CHF 500 – 700 |
| St. Gallen | CHF 2.50 – 3.50 | CHF 400 – 600 |
Factors That Influence the Price
1. Size of the Apartment (Most Important Factor)
The price per square metre is the basis. For larger apartments, the price per m² decreases slightly because certain fixed costs (travel, materials) remain the same.
2. Condition of the Apartment
A heavily soiled apartment or one with limescale deposits in the bathroom costs significantly more than a well-maintained one. Expect a surcharge of 20–40% for heavy soiling.
3. Kitchen and Bathroom — The Most Expensive Rooms
These rooms are the most labour-intensive to clean. The following points in particular increase the price:
- Baked-on oven: +CHF 30–60
- Limescale on taps and shower: +CHF 20–50
- Greasy extractor hood and filter: +CHF 20–40
- Yellowed grout in the bathroom: +CHF 30–60
4. Number of Wet Rooms
Each additional bathroom or WC means extra work. A guest WC costs approx. CHF 40–80 extra, a second full bathroom CHF 80–150.
5. Flooring Type
Parquet and natural stone require special care products and more caution than laminate or tiles.
6. Region and Timing
In Zurich and Geneva, prices tend to be 15–25% higher than in rural areas. At the end of the month (lease termination dates) and in spring, prices rise due to high demand.
What Is Included in a Move-Out Cleaning?
A professional move-out cleaning typically includes:
Kitchen:
- Oven cleaned inside and out
- Extractor hood and grease filter
- Fridge defrosted and cleaned
- Dishwasher cleaned inside
- All cupboards inside and out
- Worktops and backsplash
- Drain cleaned
Bathroom/WC:
- WC inside and out
- Shower/bathtub including grout
- Sink and taps limescale-free
- Mirror streak-free
- Cupboards wiped inside
- Ventilation grilles cleaned
- Drains clear
All Rooms:
- Floors vacuumed and mopped
- Windows cleaned inside (frame and glass)
- Radiators dusted and cleaned
- Sockets and light switches
- Doors, frames, and jambs
- Built-in wardrobes inside and out
- Skirting boards wiped
Exterior:
- Balcony/terrace swept and mopped
- Letterbox cleaned
- Cellar swept clean
Handover Guarantee (Abnahmegarantie) — Why It Matters
Many professional cleaning companies offer a handover guarantee (Abnahmegarantie). This means: if the landlord or property management finds deficiencies at the apartment handover (Wohnungsübergabe), the cleaning company returns free of charge and rectifies the issues.
Why is this important?
- In Switzerland, landlords and property managers are often very strict during the handover inspection
- Without a handover guarantee, you bear the cost of any follow-up cleaning
- The guarantee typically covers all cleaning deficiencies (but not pre-existing damage)
- Some companies even accompany you to the apartment handover
Tip: Always ask about the handover guarantee before booking! Companies without a guarantee are often significantly cheaper, but the risk is yours. A guarantee may cost CHF 50–100 more, but it can save you CHF 500+ in deposit deductions.
Do It Yourself vs. Professional: Is It Worth It?
Cost comparison for a 3-room apartment (approx. 75 m²):
| DIY Cleaning | Professional | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | CHF 50–100 (materials) | CHF 450–700 |
| Time required | 8–12 hours | 4–6 hours (professionals) |
| Handover guarantee | No | Yes (with most companies) |
| Quality | Variable | Professional |
| Risk of deposit deduction | Higher | Minimal |
Our verdict: Professional cleaning is almost always worth it. The time required for a truly thorough self-cleaning is often underestimated, and without a handover guarantee, you risk expensive follow-up work.
How to Save on Your Move-Out Cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to hire a professional cleaning service?
No, there is no legal requirement. However, the apartment must be thoroughly cleaned for handover. With professionals and a handover guarantee, you are on the safe side.
Who pays for the move-out cleaning — tenant or landlord?
The tenant is responsible for returning the apartment in a clean state. The tenant bears the costs. This is standard practice under Swiss rental law (Mietrecht).
How far in advance should I book?
Ideally 2–3 weeks, especially at the end of the month. During peak season (March–June), we recommend 3–4 weeks lead time.
What happens if the handover inspection is not passed?
With a handover guarantee, the company returns free of charge. Without one, you must arrange and pay for re-cleaning yourself or hire a new company.
Conclusion
A move-out cleaning in Switzerland costs on average between CHF 450 and CHF 700 for a typical 3-room apartment. The price depends mainly on size, condition, and region. Invest in a professional cleaning with a handover guarantee — it pays off.
Get free quotes now: With SwissOfferten, you receive non-binding quotes from verified cleaning companies in your region. Free, fast, and without obligation.
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SwissOfferten. "Moving Cleaning Costs in Switzerland: What to Expect in 2026." swissofferten.ch, 2026. https://www.swissofferten.ch/blog/moving-cleaning-costs-switzerland
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