Part V: Defects & Warranty
Handling Defects and Guarantees
Even in well-built Swiss apartments, it’s normal for some defects to appear after handover — from scratched tiles to
doors that no longer close properly once the building settles.
Understanding how to report and follow up on these issues will save you time and stress.
This chapter explains your rights, responsibilities, and typical procedures under Swiss law and SIA standards.
1.1 Legal Warranty Period in Switzerland
Under the Swiss Code of Obligations (Art. 367–371 CO), buyers are protected against construction defects for defined periods:
| Defect Type | Typical Example | Warranty Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Visible defects | Scratches, leaks, missing parts | 2 years after handover |
| Hidden or structural defects | Cracks, faulty waterproofing, electrical faults inside walls | 5 years after handover |
If your contract is based on SIA 118, these same time limits apply, but the procedure for notification and acceptance is more clearly defined.
The warranty period normally starts on the official handover date recorded in the signed acceptance protocol.
Public excerpt
This chapter continues in the paid 2026 edition
The public site keeps the introduction visible for search and early research. The full chapter, including the detailed practical guidance, is part of the Huusli book.