The Italian real estate market can seem complicated if you don’t know the language or local customs. In this article, I will guide you step by step, explaining everything you need to know about renting a house in Italy smoothly.
If you want to familiarize yourself with the terminology of the real estate market in Italy, click here: Real Estate Glossary: Property Types in Italy
How to find a house to rent in Italy
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Types of rental contracts in Italy
When it comes to renting a house in Italy, there are different contract options, each with its peculiarities. Here are the main ones:
Free Rent Contract (4+4): This is the most common type of contract. The duration is 4 years, renewable for another 4, so the total duration can reach up to 8 years. The rent price is freely decided by the landlord, but certain rules must be respected regarding annual increases. This contract is ideal if you’re looking for long-term accommodation.
Transitional Contract: If you plan to stay in Italy for a limited period (like for a temporary job or study project), this contract is the right choice. The duration usually ranges from 1 to 18 months. It is more flexible compared to long-term contracts.
Student Contract: If you’re a student, you may find contracts specifically tailored for you. These usually last for 12 months (with the possibility of renewal) and are easier to obtain. Generally, these contracts are more affordable than others, but they may hide some strict clauses, or you may only get the contract if you’re actually a student.
Each type of contract has its advantages and limitations, so it’s important to choose the one that fits your situation best. As always, regardless of the area, make sure to carefully read all the clauses before signing!
Documentation required for renting
When renting a house in Italy, there are some documents you’ll need. Be prepared to provide this information to make everything easier:
Tax Code (Codice Fiscale): This is one of the essential documents in Italy, practically needed for anything: from opening a bank account to signing a rental contract. You can easily obtain it at the Agenzia delle Entrate. Just bring a valid ID (like a passport or identity card) and fill out a form.
ID Document: To sign the contract, you will need a valid passport or identity card. If you’re not an EU citizen, a passport will suffice.
Proof of Income: Landlords want to know that you can afford to pay the rent, so they’ll likely ask for proof of income. This could be a pay slip, a tax return, or a work contract. If you don’t have a job in Italy yet, you may need to provide a guarantee, such as a co-signer who agrees to pay the rent in case of difficulty.
Landlord Guarantee or Bank Guarantee: In some cases, especially if you don’t have a stable job in Italy yet, you might be required to have a guarantor or a bank guarantee, which is a kind of insurance.
Renting the rental contract: what to look for
When it’s time to sign the rental contract, it might seem straightforward, but in Italy, contracts can hide some pitfalls if you don’t read them carefully. Here’s what you should pay attention to in order to avoid nasty surprises.
First of all, the rent. It seems obvious, but it’s important to check not only how much you’ll pay each month but also if there are any expected increases. In Italy, some contracts, like free rent contracts, may have annual increases based on inflation.
Another crucial aspect is the duration of the contract. Most contracts have a fixed term, such as 4 years in the case of the free rent contract, with the possibility to renew it for another 4 years. Check if there’s a clause that allows you to terminate the contract early or if there are penalties to pay. And if the contract is for a specific period (like a student or short-term contract), make sure you know if it can be renewed or if you’ll have to find another house at the end.
Then there’s the security deposit. Almost always, the landlord will ask for a sum that serves as a guarantee, in case of damages to the apartment or unpaid rent. This amount is usually equivalent to one or two months’ rent.
Another point that might seem obvious but isn’t always the case is the extra expenses. The contract might include only the rent, while costs for electricity, gas, water, heating, and internet are separate. Always ask if these expenses are already included in the rent or if you’ll have to pay them separately.
Lastly, carefully read the clauses regarding property maintenance. Generally, the landlord takes care of major repairs, but for regular maintenance, you’ll be responsible. And if you plan to make any modifications to the apartment, such as hanging pictures or changing something, make sure you know if you need the landlord’s permission.
Rights and duties of the tenant
First and foremost, you have the duty to maintain the property in good condition. You’re not asked to repair the roof or redo the kitchen, but you are responsible for small, regular maintenance. If a window breaks or a faucet leaks, it’s your job to inform the landlord for repairs. The unwritten rule here is: “If something breaks due to normal use, it’s not your fault, but if you weren’t careful, it could be.”
Another thing to consider is the regular payment of rent. One point not to be overlooked is the payment of the security deposit, which will be refunded at the end of the contract unless there are damages to fix. So, if you accidentally break something, fixing it before the end of the contract can make a difference.
Finally, the right to terminate the contract is an important aspect. If, for any reason, you decide to leave the apartment before the contract ends, Italian law allows you to do so, but you must give notice. This notice is usually 6 months (but it can be very flexible, depending on the type of contract and whether you’re renting through an agency or directly from a private landlord). In any case, if you need to terminate the contract, put your intentions in writing and follow the required notice period to avoid penalties.
