Cantonal differences in Swiss contracts

With its 26 cantons, Switzerland has a legal landscape of a richness unique in Europe. Federal law, in particular the Code of Obligations and the Civil Code, lays the common foundations of contract law, but each canton keeps considerable room for manoeuvre in applying and regulating many areas. This diversity can be a real challenge for individuals and businesses active in several cantons.

For residential leases, the Code of Obligations applies everywhere, but local customs matter: termination dates, for example, often depend on local custom when the lease does not set any (art. 266c CO). Some cantons also have their own rules, such as Geneva with its law on the demolition, conversion and renovation of residential buildings (LDTR), which regulates rents after works in particular. Federal tenant protection law applies throughout Switzerland.

Administrative procedures also vary widely. Registering with the residents' registration office (contrôle des habitants) follows procedures specific to each municipality and canton. The deadlines for reporting a move differ from one canton to another, often in the range of 8 to 14 days. Tax forms, although based on the same federal law, have cantonal particularities that can confuse taxpayers who move.

SwissDoc helps you take these differences into account: the templates flag the points that vary from one canton to another (termination dates, competent authorities, official forms) and cite the applicable articles. Always check the customs of your canton and, if in doubt, ask the authority concerned or a legal advice service.