Documents to Return Excess Rent for Tenants in Italy

Rent updates (ISTAT) and local agreements (with attestation) 2 min read · published September 11, 2025

If you are a tenant in Italy and believe you have paid an undue excess rent, this article explains which documents to gather to request a refund. You will find practical guidance on receipts, utility bills, a copy of the lease and written communications with the landlord, together with deadlines to respect and steps to file the claim with competent authorities or via the Revenue Agency. The instructions are aimed at non-experts: each legal term is explained simply and practical examples for contract registration, choosing the flat-rate tax and where to find official forms are included.

Which documents are needed

  • Receipts (receipt) and bank receipts proving payments made.
  • Copy of the registered lease (document) and any appendix or written agreement.
  • Communications with the landlord (notice), including reminders or replies by email or registered mail.
  • Breakdown of payments and the excess rent shown in receipts or bills (payment).
  • Photos and documentation (document) of any situations supporting the claim.
  • Time tracking: payment dates and deadlines for any applicable time limits (deadline).
  • RLI form or proof of contract registration (form) if available.
Keep digital and paper copies of every useful document.

What to do before sending the claim

Check the contract registration, verify amounts and note every communication. If the contract is not registered or there are administrative errors, ask the landlord or the Revenue Agency for clarification[2].

  • Gather and order documents in chronological order.
  • Contact the landlord for a formal request before taking legal steps.
  • Prepare copies to send and keep proof of dispatch or email delivery.

FAQ

How do I know if I am entitled to a refund of excess rent?
If the payment exceeds what was agreed in the registered lease or lacks justification, you may be entitled; assess the evidence and the time limits set by law[1].
How long do I have to request a refund?
Deadlines can vary: keep all receipts and act within applicable limitation periods, seeking legal advice if needed.
Do I need the contract registered to be entitled?
Registration makes it easier to prove the agreed amounts; use the RLI form to verify registration[2].

How to

  1. Collect all receipts, the registered lease and communications.
  2. Draft a written claim detailing the excess rent and supporting documents (form).
  3. Send the claim to the landlord and keep proof of dispatch, preferably by registered mail or certified email.
  4. If you receive no reply, consider court action or conciliation mediation.
  5. If proceedings continue, submit copies of evidence in court and follow the judge's directions.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] Normattiva - Law 431/1998
  2. [2] Italian Revenue Agency - RLI Form
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Italy

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.