SwitzerlandOIBT explained
The OIBT (Swiss Low-Voltage Installations Ordinance, SR 734.27) sets the safety rules for electrical installations in Switzerland. It requires owners to have their installations periodically inspected by an independent body and to submit a safety certificate to the grid operator.
Who is responsible?
The owner of the installation (art. 5 OIBT). The grid operator sends a notice six months before the due date; without a certificate by the deadline, it sends a reminder and then refers the case to ESTI, which may order the inspection at the owner's expense.
Types of inspection
Final inspection (by the installer after the works), acceptance inspection (by an independent body for large or solar installations), periodic inspection (at the due date) and random inspection (initiated by the grid operator or ESTI).
What happens on site
The safety advisor visually inspects the installations, takes measurements (continuity, insulation, fault loop, residual-current devices), records the results in a measurement protocol and issues the safety certificate. Defects are listed with a correction deadline.
And then?
Without defects, the safety certificate goes to the grid operator and the installation is in order for the next period. With defects, an electrician fixes them, the inspector validates, then the certificate is sent.
Inspection intervals (OIBT annex)
- 20 years: dwellings, houses, residential buildings
- 10 years: offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, schools, workshops
- 5 years: industry, farms, medical premises, wet rooms
- 1 year: construction sites, markets, temporary installations
Frequently asked questions
What is a periodic OIBT inspection?
The Swiss Low-Voltage Installations Ordinance (OIBT/NIV) requires owners to have their electrical installations inspected at regular intervals (20 years for housing, 10 or 5 years for commercial premises). The grid operator sends a notice; you appoint an independent inspection body which issues the safety certificate.
Who may carry out the inspection?
Only an independent inspection body or an electrical safety advisor licensed by ESTI. All OIBT pro inspectors are licensed.
Is the displayed price final?
Yes, for the property as described. If on site the property differs significantly (extra meters or dwellings, undeclared outbuildings), the inspector informs you before going further.
What happens if defects are found?
You receive a defect report with a correction deadline. An electrician (yours or an OIBT pro partner) fixes them, then the inspector validates the corrections and sends the safety certificate to the grid operator.
What should I prepare for the inspection?
Access to all rooms, the switchboard and the meters, wiring diagrams if you have them, and the grid operator's notice.
Is the inspection available everywhere in Switzerland?
We cover French-speaking Switzerland today and are expanding the inspector network in German-speaking Switzerland and Ticino. If no slot appears for your area, leave us your request: we will get back to you.