Glossary of technical terms in the construction industry
Technical terms from the construction industry explained briefly and understandably
Technical terms from the construction industry explained briefly and understandably
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As a general contractor, we support you every step of the way in planning your house construction. From finding the perfect building plot to handing over the keys, we're there for you. In the process, you may encounter new technical terms from the construction industry.
Whether you're a layperson or an expert, you can quickly stumble across unclear technical terms in the construction industry. Whether you need to look something up quickly or are simply interested in expanding your knowledge, our glossary will help you impress your colleagues with your new expertise. Here you'll find the information you're looking for on technical terms in the construction industry.
Contaminated sites refer to pollutants or waste in the soil or in existing buildings. These pollutants can occur naturally in the soil or remain there due to previous use of the property. Contaminated sites are often recorded in a register (e.g., a register of contaminated sites), which can be viewed. Known contaminated sites are also usually recorded in the land register.
An attic floor is a story built on top of the uppermost full story. Often, the attic floor is not included in the usable floor area; however, it must still meet cantonal and municipal requirements. It is typically characterized by a spacious terrace.
Many plots of land may only be built upon and utilized up to a certain limit. The floor area ratio (FAR) describes the relationship between the plot area and the usable floor area. Cantonal and municipal regulations can vary considerably in this regard. The higher the FAR, the larger the building can be and the more valuable the plot of land.
In addition to the plans, such as the construction contract plans, the building specifications describe the execution and completion in written form. Generally, the building specifications describe the quality and the plans the quantity of the construction project.
All costs incurred during a construction project can be categorized in the so-called construction cost plan according to a predefined numbering system. This standardized categorization facilitates simple and clear communication between all parties involved in the construction project, such as clients, planners, contractors, and financial institutions.
Municipal zoning plans divide the municipal area into different zones. These differently colored zones define the buildable areas (building zones). These building zones are further subdivided into residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The corresponding building and zoning regulations for each zone are listed in the relevant zoning and construction regulations.
An easement can grant one property a benefit or disadvantage, or encumber another. For example, a granted right of way entitles the benefiting landowner to drive on a specific area of their own property. These rights can be very diverse and must be considered during the planning phase. Any changes can only be made by mutual agreement and with the assistance of a notary.
A replacement building is defined as a new structure erected in place of an existing one. Depending on the building zone or the status of the building to be demolished, the new building must, to a greater or lesser extent, relate to the demolished building. In a core zone, for example, it may be required that a new building be constructed with the same volume and appearance.
Prefabricated houses are often pre-built residential concepts available "off the shelf," which can generally be erected on the building site inexpensively and in a very short time. Construction projects using modular elements can be labeled "prefabricated house."
A development plan is a tool available to municipalities for designating larger building sites within the zoning plan, based on an overall concept. These development plans include further regulations and requirements for a construction project, which must be adhered to in addition to the standard building and zoning regulations. A development plan often also includes a preliminary concept plan with designated building areas.
The boundary distance refers to the distance between a building and the property line. A minimum distance is generally required. This varies from municipality to municipality and is described in the building and zoning regulations. There are also differences in the interpretation of boundary distances at the cantonal level. For example, the required distance may depend on the building's height or length.
A right to build on the property line is an easement that can be registered in the land register between two parcels of land by mutual agreement. With a right to build on the property line, the so-called boundary distance requirement is waived, allowing construction right up to the boundary. Important! Any required building setbacks must still be observed (e.g., fire safety distances).
The land register contains all information about a property. This includes, for example, ownership and occupancy details, as well as easements. A land register extract is primarily required when selling real estate to prove ownership to the notary. It must also be submitted to the bank when applying for a mortgage in order for the loan to be granted. The land register is organized at the cantonal level; there is no nationwide land register in Switzerland. You can request a land register extract online from the relevant land registry office. We would also be happy to handle this for you upon request.
Property transfer costs are the notary fees incurred when transferring real estate to a new owner. These include land registry fees, the notary's fees, costs for drawing up or amending mortgage deeds, and capital gains tax. Whether the costs are borne by the buyer or seller is a matter of negotiation; often, the fees are shared equally by both parties. The capital gains tax is usually paid by the seller.
The Intercantonal Agreement on the Harmonization of Building Terminology (IVHB) obliges most Swiss cantons to incorporate specified building terminology and measurement methods into their laws and regulations by 2025. This harmonization aims to simplify planning and building law. However, at the municipal level, this adaptation must be implemented in building and zoning regulations; therefore, the status must be clarified separately for each municipality.
A mortgage is a loan from a mortgage lender, such as a bank, for which interest is charged. The loan-to-value ratio (LTV) on the property may not exceed 80%, meaning the buyer must contribute at least 20% of the purchase price as equity. To secure the loan, the mortgage lender receives a lien on the property. A maximum of 10% of the equity may come from the buyer's occupational pension plan. The other 10% must come from cash and/or Pillar 3a savings. Further information can be found in our financing guide.
The knee wall is the uppermost wall built below the roof. The roof structure rests on top of it.
The knee wall height, in turn, is a common term in building law. It refers to the aforementioned structural element, but the method of measurement varies considerably in the building codes of the cantons. Generally speaking, the higher the knee wall, the more space is available under the roof.
When a building is constructed on-site using brick and concrete, it is referred to as solid construction. This basic framework of brick and concrete fulfills the structural and spatial functions of the building. This construction method is very durable and can be realized at a very good price-performance ratio. The facades and roof design can be individually adapted to the requirements and wishes of the client. Later modifications to the building can often be made easily. All Atmos houses are built using solid construction.
Subdivision occurs when an existing property is divided into several plots or when different plots are combined into one. In principle, every owner has the right to subdivide their property, but local building regulations must be observed. The application for subdivision is submitted via a building permit.
Sunlight is a free renewable energy source. A solar power system can be installed to harness this energy. A primary distinction is made between photovoltaic systems and solar thermal systems.
In a photovoltaic system , sunlight is converted into electricity using solar cells and made usable.
In a solar thermal system, energy from the sun is used to heat a liquid, which is then also converted into usable energy.
Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages; however, photovoltaic systems are predominantly used in the single-family home sector. Retrofittable batteries allow for even more efficient use of the collected electricity. Despite the initial investment, this can lead to long-term cost savings.
A turnkey offer refers to a project where all planning and construction work is organized and coordinated by a single contractor. For the client, this means less effort throughout the entire process. We would be happy to advise you without obligation on your turnkey home.
The SIA is the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects, which has created a nationally recognized and important set of standards with the SIA standards, and which it continuously reviews and expands.
Technical and contractual standards, as well as standards of communication, broadly define the rules of construction and the cooperation between the parties involved.
The "W" in W1, W2, or W3 stands for residential zone. The number following it usually the number of full stories permitted in that zone. Residential zone W2, for example, typically designates a zone where houses with up to two full stories are allowed and would therefore be ideal for single-family homes. However, the meaning can vary from municipality to municipality. We can clarify for you what is permitted in your specific residential zone.
Can't find the explanation for a technical term you're looking for? Write to us; we'll help you with any uncertainties and are happy to expand our glossary.
Do you have questions about this topic or would you like a personal assessment? Our experts are happy to assist you.
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