Introduction

At OH-Stay.com, we have compiled this resource to assist our hosts in understanding their responsibilities and to offer a general overview of the legal, regulatory, and practical considerations pertinent to hosting. Hosts are required to adhere to our Hosting Standards and to ensure full compliance with all laws and regulations applicable to their specific location and situation. Please note that this article is not comprehensive and does not constitute legal or tax advice. We advise hosts to conduct their own due diligence, as the information provided may not be updated in real time. Ultimate responsibility for verifying, interpreting, and complying with all information presented herein rests with the host.

Table of contents

• Health and Cleanliness

• Local Regulations

• National Taxes

• Regulations and Permissions

• Safety

• Good Manners

• Insurance

• Other Hosting Information

Health and Cleanliness

Information about OH-Stay.com’s cleaning protocols can be found in our Responsible Hosting Guide.

Authoritative cleaning & hygiene resources

• Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH/BAG): general guidance (DE/FR/IT/EN)

• Switzerland Tourism: “Clean & Safe” label (DE/FR/IT/EN)

• ECDC: non-pharmaceutical measures & cleaning guidance

• FOPH COVID-19 hub: information & recommendations (DE/FR/IT/EN)

Safety

We care about the safety of hosts and their guests. Improve peace of mind by preparing emergency instructions and noting any potential hazards.

Emergency contact information
Provide a contact list including:

• Local emergency numbers (police 117, fire 118, ambulance 144)

• Nearest hospital phone number

• Your contact number

• A backup contact (if guests cannot reach you)

Guests can also contact you via OH-Stay.com messages as a secure alternative.

Medical supplies
Keep a first aid kit, tell guests where it is, and restock it regularly.

Fire and gas safety
If you have gas appliances, follow applicable safety regulations and install a working carbon monoxide detector. Provide and maintain a fire extinguisher. Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route and post a visible map. For general guidance, consult your cantonal fire authority.

Hazard prevention

• Inspect for trip/fall hazards and remove or clearly mark them

• Fix exposed wires

• Ensure stairs are safe and have railings

• Remove or lock up dangerous items

Child safety
Use your OH-Stay.com listing to disclose hazards or indicate if the home isn’t suitable for children/infants.

Climate control

• Ensure proper ventilation

• Provide safe-use instructions for heating/air conditioning

• Check the thermostat and show guests where it is

• Service appliances regularly

Occupancy limits
Establish safe limits and follow local/cantonal guidance.

National Taxes

Tax is complex and depends on your circumstances. Research your obligations or consult a qualified tax professional.

In general, money you earn as a host on OH-Stay.com is taxable income and may be subject to income tax and (where applicable) VAT. You can view earnings in your OH-Stay.com earnings summary.

Deadlines & filing
Swiss tax deadlines are set by the cantons (many use dates around 31 March; extensions may be available). Check the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (ESTV/FTA) and your cantonal tax office for exact deadlines and requirements.

Reporting obligations
The Swiss Federal Tax Administration may request data about certain taxpayers from digital platforms in accordance with applicable law. OH-Stay.com may be legally required to provide limited transaction information to the FTA upon request.

Tourist/occupancy taxes & local fees
Some municipalities require the collection and remittance of a tourist/overnight stay tax. Check your commune/canton for rules and registration steps. See also Switzerland Tourism – industry info.

Local Regulations

Local rules can differ by canton and commune. Always verify with your local authority:

• Confederation portal: ch.ch

• State Secretariat for Migration (SEM): sem.admin.ch

• Your canton/commune website (permits, guest/tourist taxes, safety)

Regulations and Permissions

Make sure you’re allowed to host on your property. Restrictions may arise from contracts, laws, and community rules. Consult a lawyer or local authority for advice tailored to your situation.

Guest registration
You may be legally required to collect and retain information for Swiss and foreign guests and to report foreign guests within statutory timelines.

• Legal basis: Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration (AIG/FNIA) – Fedlex

• State Secretariat for Migration (SEM): guidance & forms

If you keep a guest directory, you must comply with data protection law and protect guest data from third-party access.

• Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP): overview – FDPIC

Contractual agreements and permits
Leases, building regulations, and community rules may restrict subletting or hosting. Review contracts and, if needed, seek consent from your landlord, co-ownership association, or building manager. Where all parties agree, you can add an addendum clarifying responsibilities and liabilities.

Mortgage restrictions
If your property is mortgaged, confirm with your lender that hosting/subletting is allowed.

Subsidized housing restrictions
Social/subsidized housing usually restricts subletting without permission. Check with your housing authority or association.

Housemates
Consider a written housemate agreement covering hosting frequency, guest etiquette, and revenue sharing.

Collective employment contract (L-GAV) for hospitality
If you employ staff (e.g., cleaners, reception), observe the industry agreement: L-GAV (DE/FR/IT).

Consumer protection
For online services offered to consumers, ensure compliance with Swiss consumer rules: SECO consumer protection.

Misuse
OH-Stay.com will take appropriate action when notified of potential misuse and provides guidance for authorities to report housing misuse.

Good Manners

Help guests understand local customs and community expectations.

Building rules
If your building has common spaces/amenities, share the rules for those areas.

House rules
Add house rules in the “Additional notes” section of your OH-Stay.com listing so expectations are clear.

Neighbors
Inform neighbors when appropriate and address concerns proactively.

Noise
Set quiet hours; consider policies such as no parties, no additional unregistered guests, and—if needed—no pets.

Parking
Explain building and street rules (e.g., assigned spaces, street cleaning times, overnight limits).

Pets
Check lease/building rules. If you allow pets, share local exercise options, waste-disposal guidance, and a backup kennel contact.

Privacy
Respect guest privacy. Be transparent about any permitted security devices and comply with Swiss data protection law; see FDPIC guidance.

Smoking
If you prohibit smoking, post clear signage. If allowed, provide ashtrays in designated areas.

Insurance

Work with your insurance agent or carrier to determine the obligations, limits, and coverage appropriate for your situation. Basic protections (e.g., damage or liability cover) do not replace adequate homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Review your policy to confirm short-term rental activities are covered.

Liability and basic coverage
Review your homeowner’s or renter’s policy with your insurer to ensure adequate liability coverage and property protection for hosting.

Other Hosting Information

For additional help, visit our Hosting FAQs.

Important: Hosts are solely responsible for their conduct and compliance. OH-Stay.com does not control individual host behavior and disclaims liability. Failure to meet responsibilities may result in suspension or removal from OH-Stay.com. OH-Stay.com is not responsible for the reliability or accuracy of information on third-party sites linked in this resource.