Leaks and Mold: Tenant Rights in Italy
If you live in an apartment with leaks or mold in Italy, it is important to know your rights as a tenant and the steps to obtain repairs or file a claim. This article explains how to report the problem to the landlord, what documents to collect (photos, emails, receipts), when to contact the Revenue Agency for contract registration and which legal or administrative actions are possible. You will find practical instructions for requesting urgent interventions, avoiding worsening habitability and, if necessary, preparing a formal complaint or appeal to the court. The information is aimed at concrete solutions and is based on the relevant Italian rules.
Immediate steps
- Send a written communication (email or registered letter) to the landlord indicating the location and date of the problem.
- Document with photos, videos and a log of communications as evidence.
- Request urgent repairs for mold, leaks or faulty systems specifying timing and access.
- If you do not receive a response, consider a formal complaint and, if necessary, an appeal to the court.
Repairs: ordinary maintenance vs extraordinary
Generally, the distinction between ordinary maintenance and extraordinary interventions determines who pays. Repairs necessary to make the property habitable or to eliminate structural risks are usually the landlord's responsibility, while ordinary small maintenance may be the tenant's duty. For specific aspects and contractual limits consult current legislation such as Law 431/1998 [1] and the Civil Code; checking the contract is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for mold repairs?
- Normally the landlord is responsible for extraordinary repairs affecting habitability, while the tenant handles minor maintenance; check the contract and applicable law [1].
- Can I withhold rent if the home has mold?
- Withholding rent is risky without an agreement or court order; it is better to report and request a formal reduction or legal assistance before stopping payments.
- Why is registering the contract useful?
- Registering the contract with the Revenue Agency helps prove the tenancy relationship and access fiscal tools such as the flat-rate tax or proof of residence useful in disputes [2].
How to
- Document the problem with photos, videos and a log of dates and communications.
- Send a written communication to the landlord (email or registered letter) requesting intervention and timing.
- If necessary, gather quotes or expert reports to show the extent of the damage.
- Send a formal warning if the problem is not resolved and keep all receipts.
- If the situation persists, consider an appeal to the civil court or support from a legal advisor.
Key takeaways
- Report immediately and document with photos and communications to create evidence.
- Send written requests and keep receipts and quotes.
- If the landlord does not act, consider a formal warning and legal action.
