Second home renovation: the aid and advice to finance the works

The benefits of renovating a second home

Why get started?

1. More comfort: improve insulation, heating, ventilation and interior layout for optimal comfort.
2. Enhancing property value: a renovated second home gains value on the real estate market.
3. Energy savings: reduce your energy consumption and bills thanks to energy renovation work.
4. Respect for the environment: contribute to protecting the environment by improving the energy performance of your home.
5. Adapting to your needs: modify the layout and equipment to better meet your needs and lifestyle.

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What financial aid is available to renovate a second home in Switzerland?

Discover the renovation aid that can help you finance your work:

• Cantonal and communal subsidies: check with your canton and municipality to find out the subsidies available for energy renovation work. The conditions of award and the amounts of the subsidies vary from one region to another.
• Buildings Programme: the federal "Buildings" programme encourages energy renovations of existing buildings, including second homes. Subsidies are awarded for thermal insulation, replacement of wooden windows, installation of renewable heating systems, and so on.
• Tax deductions: some cantons allow these costs to be deducted from your taxes.
• Preferential-rate loans: financial institutions offer reduced-rate loans for energy renovation work.

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Renovating your second home: where to start?

Before starting the work, it is essential to plan your project properly:

• Define your needs and priorities: what are the most important types of work? What is your budget?
• Have an energy audit carried out: identify the weak points of your home in terms of energy performance.
• Request several quotes: compare offers from different professionals to obtain the best value for money.
• Check the required authorisations: ask your municipality whether authorisations are required for your work.

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Energy renovation: priority works

To optimise the energy efficiency of your second home, favour the following works:

• Thermal insulation: insulate the walls, floors, roof and façades to reduce heat losses.
• Window replacement: favour double or triple-glazed windows to improve insulation.
• High-performance heating system: opt for a renewable heating system or a high-efficiency energy system.
• Domestic hot water production: install a solar water heater or a heat pump for domestic hot water.

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Relaxation of the Lex Weber: renovate your second home easily

The Lex Weber, which entered into force in 2012, aimed to limit the construction of new secondary residences. However, in 2024, Parliament adopted a relaxation of the Lex Weber. Here is what you need to know:

• Conversion of existing buildings: the relaxation applies to buildings built before 2012.
• Creation of permanent housing: the homes created must be intended as a main residence.
• Respect for planning rules: projects must comply with local rules.
• Authorisation from the authorities: required for any conversion project.

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What are the differences between renovating a second home and a main residence?

Even if the nature of the work is similar, renovating a second home in Switzerland differs from renovating a main residence in several ways. 1. Legal and administrative aspects: Planning rules and authorisation procedures may vary.

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Renovation work: finding the right professionals

The choice of professionals is crucial to the success of your project. EDIREX connects you with qualified craftspeople and companies. Discover the benefits of our platform:

• Compare offers from several professionals for free.
• Find reliable companies.
• Obtain personalised quotes.

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Budget for renovating your second home: assessing and optimising

Setting a precise budget is essential to keep costs under control. Do not forget to take into account:

• The cost of materials
• Labour
• Energy costs
• Ancillary expenses Optimise your budget by comparing offers.