Enhancing the Value of Your Roof in Geneva: Illuminated Sign Management
Use Regulated by the Law on the Geneva Bay
In the Geneva Harbor area, the installation of illuminated signs on rooftops is not merely tolerated: it is mandated by the area’s zoning regulations, which require that the rooftops of the buildings in question be equipped with structures designed for this type of signage. This legal framework, developed over several decades, explains why virtually all of the most visible locations in the Rade are now occupied.
For a property owner, this changes the perspective: it’s not a matter of exploring a hypothetical option, but of adopting a practice that is already widespread, regulated, and proven on Geneva’s rooftops.
3 Good Reasons to Rent Out Your Roof
1. A new, stable, and recurring source of rental income
Renting out your roof for a lighted sign generates additional income from a space that would otherwise yield nothing—a great way to maximize your rental return. Commercial leases are typically long-term (5 to 10 years, renewable), guaranteeing a steady and predictable income stream without requiring major construction or investment on your part. The building’s structure is assessed in advance by specialists, who ensure that the installation does not compromise its structural integrity or maintenance.
2. A value-added roof, without the hassle of managing it
Negotiating with an international brand, drafting a compliant lease agreement, and overseeing an installation project: these aren’t the responsibilities of a building owner. That’s why theAgence M.P. Berthoud doesn’t just connect the parties—it takes out the lease for the rooftop space in its own name and then subleases it to the advertising brand. You have only one contractual partner, who manages the entire process—from finding the brand to maintaining the sign—and assumes all legal obligations.
3. The peace of mind that comes from a local partnership that has been stable for 50 years
By taking out the lease itself, theAgence M.P. Berthoud becomes your direct tenant—not a temporary advertising brand that might change its strategy or budget overnight. You’ll be dealing with a local partner that has been based in Geneva for over 50 years, which is solely responsible for paying rent, handling paperwork with the authorities, and providing prompt assistance when needed—regardless of which brand is subleasing the space.
Agence M.P. Berthoud Renting Out Your Roof: How It Works
Specifically, theAgence M.P. Berthoud manages the entire project lifecycle: conducting a feasibility study for the rooftop, leasing the site in its own name, identifying the most suitable brand, handling administrative procedures, overseeing manufacturing and installation, and then providing maintenance and monitoring throughout the duration of the contract.
A digital simulator even lets you preview how a sign will look on your building against the Geneva skyline. A single point of contact, a single contract, from the first meeting through the end of the lease.
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Your roof could be the home of the next illuminated sign in La Rade.Request your free feasibility study →
It depends on several factors: location, visibility, building structure, and applicable regulations. In the Rade area, the zoning regulations already require that the relevant rooftops be equipped to accommodate this type of signage. TheAgence M.P. Berthoud offers a free feasibility study to assess your building’s potential.
The property owner signs the lease directly withAgence M.P. Berthoud, which becomes the tenant for the rooftop space. The agency then subleases the space to the advertising brand—an arrangement that provides a single, stable local point of contact, without any direct dependence on a third-party company.
The amount depends on the location, visibility, and the term of the lease. A personalized estimate is provided after we assess your property. Contact us to learn more →
As the tenant of the site, theAgence M.P. Berthoud handles all administrative procedures with the cantonal and municipal authorities in Geneva. The owner does not need to take any action.
Agence M.P. Berthoud , and its sublessee are fully responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sign throughout the term of the contract. The owner is not responsible for any technical management.
These commercial contracts are generally for a term of 5 or 10 years, renewable, in order to ensure stability for all parties. The specific terms are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Simply contactAgence M.P. Berthoud, which will provide a free assessment of your building’s potential and guide you through every step of the process.
