There are many situations when people will wish to have a bar available. Quite a few people have used bars as a place to meet friends and colleagues, to have a first date, and much more. If you would like to rent a bar so that you can start your own business, then you have found the right place.

Here, you can seek a posting for a bar for rent and find a location near you. Alternatively, you can even create advertisements stating that you need a bar to rent so that property owners can find you. ImmoScout24 is here to help you find the right bar.

Renting a pub in Switzerland

As rentals, pubs comprise gastro pubs, pop-up spaces and event rooms with bar service. They are suitable for restaurateurs, caterers and event organisers looking for a versatile property where they can start out or expand. Supply is limited in urban locations. The housing market has a vacancy rate of 1.01% for flats – while residential figures do not directly apply here, they are still an indicator of high overall demand for space.

At a glance: pubs to let

• Ideal for new businesses, trials of concepts or pop-ups

• Existing infrastructure reduces the need for investment

• Freedom of contract, but clear regulations in commercial tenancy law are necessary

• Observe noise and fire protection regulations

• Landlord’s VAT option may affect costs

Market overview for pubs in Switzerland

Switzerland is changing: over the last three years, the population has changed by 3.57%, to 9'051'029. The average income is CHF 81'875 and the unemployment rate is 1.47%. These figures help to bolster consumption and people’s willingness to spend money on going out. Rental prices for properties average CHF 1640 per month; 25% of properties on offer are priced at CHF 1300 or less, and 75% at CHF 2070 or less. These values refer to rental properties in general and are merely intended as a rough guide; commercial rents for restaurants vary greatly depending on the location and are often higher in city centres. The ramp-up in construction of new housing (235'897 flats in 5 years) indicates a consistently fast-paced urban market with opportunities for conversion.

What costs are involved in renting a pub?

The rent consists of the base rent and utility costs (e.g. heating, water, building maintenance). Operating costs such as electricity, waste disposal and any licences are charged on top. Security deposits/bank guarantees are standard. For tax purposes, the rental of commercial premises is usually exempt from VAT; however, landlords can opt in to VAT, which allows for pre-tax deductions. Make sure to budget for one-off costs such as purchasing the existing inventory, paying for building permits/advertising permits, investing in fire safety, and paying the costs of relocation and renovation.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether renting a pub is right for you

1. Define your concept and target group.

2. Analyse the location in terms of footfall, public transport and competition.

3. Plan your budget, liquidity and financial reserves.

4. Review the commercial lease agreement: rent, utilities, index-linking, subletting, protection from competition.

5. Clarify building regulations and permits (hospitality, alcohol, noise, fire safety).

6. Perform technical due diligence (electrical systems, emergency exits, sound insulation).

7. Negotiate terms and conditions and securities/collateral, plan the handover.

Next steps

Start searching for suitable pubs, arrange viewings, and evaluate the floor plans, operating licences and lease documents. If necessary, consult a tax consultant/accountant or legal advisor to professionally assess terms and risks.