Can You Drill in a Swiss Rental? | Tenant Guide (2025)

Can You Drill in a Swiss Rental Apartment? A Guide for Tenants (2025)

Can you drill in a Swiss rental apartment? Many tenants in Switzerland ask this question when trying to mount shelves, curtains, or a TV. This guide will help you understand what’s allowed and how to do it safely with MyProfessional.ch

1. Is Drilling Allowed in Swiss Rental Apartments?

Yes — with limitations.
Most landlords in Switzerland allow tenants to drill holes for basic needs like hanging pictures, curtain rails, or installing light fixtures.

However, the rule of thumb is simple:

If it’s not permanent and can be undone without damage, it’s usually okay.

That said, there are a few caveats:

  • Drilling into concrete or structural walls may require professional care
  • Landlords may ask for holes to be filled before moving out
  • In newer buildings or heritage properties, stricter rules may apply

Learn more about Swiss tenant rights at the official Swiss Tenants’ Association.

2. What Tenants Should Be Aware Of

Before you start drilling, consider the following:

  • Check your rental contract: Some explicitly prohibit modifications

  • Avoid plumbing or electrical lines: Use a detector or consult a pro

  • Wall material matters: Concrete, plaster, or drywall all require different tools and anchors

  • Noise regulations: Avoid drilling during rest hours (especially in Zurich!)

3. What You Can (and Can’t) Install

Allowed (in most cases):

  • Curtain rods and blinds

  • Picture hooks and wall shelves

  • TV mounts (if professionally installed)

  • Light fixtures or ceiling lamps

Not recommended without permission:

  • Large structural modifications

  • Built-in furniture

  • Wall demolitions or moving electrical points

4. Returning the Apartment in Original Condition

Swiss tenancy law requires you to restore the apartment to its original state — meaning:

  • Fill in drilled holes

  • Repaint if damage is visible

  • Remove all personal installations (unless agreed upon in writing)

Tip: If done professionally, landlords are less likely to complain during your final inspection.

5. How MyProfessional.ch Can Help

Drilling into concrete walls or installing heavy items isn’t always a DIY job, especially in Swiss buildings with strict construction standards.

At MyProfessional.ch, we make it easy to:

Whether you live in Zurich, Zug, or Sankt Gallen, our pros know local regulations and building types.

6. Available in Your Area

We provide wall-mounting and handyman services in:

  • Zurich – concrete walls, light installation, wall repairs

  • Zug – mounting curtain rods, TVs, and shelves

  • Sankt Gallen – post-move repairs and installation

  • Luzern & more – on-demand availability

Final Tips for Renters

Ready to Drill? Let Us Help

Whether you’re mounting a TV, installing shelves, or just unsure what’s allowed, we’re here to help.

Book your handyman in Zurich, Zug, or Sankt Gallen now at MyProfessional.ch. Fast, direct, and commission-free.