Construction defects in PPE in Geneva: what are the buyer's remedies in 2026?

Since January 1, 2026, the Swiss legal landscape has undergone a profound transformation regarding the liability of builders. For any buyer in a PPE (condominium) in Geneva, understanding these developments is essential to protect their investment.

The reform of the Code of Obligations (CO) aims to better balance the relationship between the project owner and the companies, notably by strengthening the rights related to construction defects and their remedies.

Understanding the new 2026 legal framework

The reform that came into force this year brings major clarifications. While the principle of defect notification remains, the legislator has sought to secure the buyer's position.

From now on, the right to repair is more explicitly protected, and notification deadlines have been harmonized to avoid procedural traps. It is crucial to distinguish between apparent defects and hidden defects.

The distinction between apparent and hidden defects

Vigilance begins at the acceptance of the work. Apparent defects are those that you can detect during a diligent inspection.

According to the new provisions, notification must occur without delay after the inspection. For hidden defects, the 60-day period to act begins to run from their discovery, providing a major step forward for owners facing late-discovered structural issues.

Key steps to assert your rights

To maximize your chances of success in the event of a dispute, follow these recommendations:

• Document each defect with dated photos and technical reports.
• Report defects in writing (registered mail) to the contractor or developer.
• Never sign an acceptance report without expressing precise reservations.
• Call on an independent expert to validate the compliance of the work.

Why AMO support is decisive

The technical and legal complexity of construction sites in Geneva makes Project Management Assistance (AMO) particularly relevant. At KERLINE SA, we act as a trusted third party to represent your interests exclusively.

We help you anticipate risks from the construction phase and secure the acceptance of your property. In the event of a dispute, our technical expertise allows us to precisely qualify defects and formulate legally sound claims.