A new, tenant-friendly law goes into effect today; new health insurance premiums to place significant burden on many Swiss households; and further news in our Wednesday roundup.
New ‘housing shortage’ rule goes into effect today
In the event of a housing shortage, the cantons may, from this day onward, prescribe the use of the official form for the notification of the initial rent when concluding a new residential lease.
This ensures that tenants are informed about the previous rent and their right to contest their own.
The use of the official form is also intended to encourage the landlords to exercise restraint when increasing the rent or when changing a tenant.
READ ALSO: Can you know how much your Swiss landlord charged previous tenants?
And you can see all the other changes for October here:
READ ALSO: Everything that changes about life in Switzerland in October 2025
Health insurance premiums: an increasingly unbearable burden for households
An average increase of 4.4 percent in premiums announced for 2026 will represent a significant burden for many households – 35 percent – according to a new survey carried out by Tamedia media group.
Further, 9 percent said the increase would be “very difficult “ to pay, and 5 percent simply did not know how they would manage financially.
On the other hand, 28 percent of respondents indicated that the increase would not have a significant impact on their budget.
As a reminder, individuals and households that can’t afford the health insurance premiums can apply for help from their cantons.
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Swiss like to tip, but freely
A new study carried out by Banque Cler sheds light on the tipping habits and behaviour of Swiss consumers.
It found that more than half of those surveyed said they almost always leave a tip when dining out; most often, this amount represents around 5 to 10 percent of the bill.
The majority said they want to set the amount of the gratuity themselves rather than be prompted by payment terminals. Therefore, they prefer paying cash over credit card transactions.
Another finding: “The more customers are encouraged, or even directly solicited, to tip, the less they appreciate it.”
READ ALSO: Swiss uneasy over rise of American-style tipping system
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And if you are planning to go to Italy in the coming days…
Beware that a a 24-hour general strike will take place on Thursday and Friday that is likely to disrupt your journey.
You can find out all the details here:
READ ALSO: How will Italy’s general strike affect travel on Thursday and Friday?
If you have any questions about life in Switzerland, ideas for articles or news tips for The Local, please get in touch with us at news@thelocal.ch
