Legal need for action in the event of construction defects
Der Nationalrat und der Ständerat erkennen den dringenden Bedarf zur Verbesserung der Gewährleistungsrechte bei Baumängeln. Trotz der erzielten Fortschritte bleibt die Problematik für private Bauherren und Immobilienkäufer bestehen, da der Ständerat weiterhin eine Rügefrist zur Anzeige von Mängeln vorschreibt, wenn auch verlängert auf 60 Tage. Der HEV Schweiz zeigt sich enttäuscht und fordert weitere Anpassungen.
The current legal situation is proving to be disadvantageous for buyers of new builds and private developers. Problematic contractual clauses that have developed in practice put them at a considerable disadvantage. The existing law assumes two equally strong negotiating partners, which is not the case in reality. Professional contractors and sellers dictate the terms of the contract, while private developers have no negotiating power due to the high demand in the real estate market. This “eat or die” mentality puts them under massive pressure.
The National Council’s proposals: Abolition of the separatenotice period
The National Council has created a practicable proposal, the core of which is the abolition of the separate notice period for defects. Currently, buyers and builders have to observe two deadlines: the notice period and the limitation period. The notice period requires a detailed notification of defects to the right person within a short period of time. If this deadline is missed, buyers and builders lose all warranty rights. The limitation period is the second requirement. The abolition of the notice period would solve the main problem that many lose their statutory liability claims because they are unable to give notice of construction defects in good time. HEV Switzerland supported this decision by the National Council.
The position of the Council of States: Extension of the notice period, but no abolition
The Council of States recognizes the need for action to improve liability for construction defects, but maintains the notice period, albeit extended to 60 days. However, this extension does not solve the fundamental problem that private buyers and builders lose their rights in the event of defects if they do not comply with the legal requirements of a notice of defects within the deadline.
No extension of the limitation period
The Council of States is also adamant about the limitation period. The existing period of five years remains in place and can be shortened further by contract. The National Council had called for this period to be extended to ten years in order to do justice to the buyer’s claims for defects. For homeowners and condominium owners, the onset of the limitation period means that they can no longer enforce their rights in the event of construction defects and must bear the costs themselves. In view of the long service life of many building components, this short limitation period is problematic. HEV Switzerland is disappointed that private lay purchasers and building owners continue to be disadvantaged.
Referral back to the National Council
The bill will now be referred back to the National Council. HEV Switzerland remains committed to improving the legal situation of private home and condominium owners in the event of construction defects. The hope remains that further discussions and adjustments will lead to a solution that meets the needs and rights of private builders and property buyers.