Mediation and Conciliation for Tenants in Italy

Rent updates (ISTAT) and local agreements (with attestation) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

If you are a tenant in Italy facing a dispute over rent, ISTAT adjustments or maintenance work, conciliation and mediation can offer a faster and less costly route than court. This practical guide clearly explains how conciliation and mediation procedures work, what to prepare, which deadlines to respect and when it is useful to involve a lawyer or a mediation service. You will find concrete examples on contract registration and the use of the RLI form[2], on tax options such as the flat-rate tax and tips for documenting payments, correspondence and habitability defects. The information is aimed at non-expert tenants looking for practical and applicable solutions in Italy.

What are conciliation and mediation?

Conciliation and mediation are out-of-court procedures designed to help parties reach an agreement with the help of a neutral third party. For tenants they can resolve disputes over rent, ISTAT adjustments, condominium expenses or repair works without immediately starting a civil lawsuit.

Mediation often requires less time and cost than a court process.

When to use them

  • Disputes on rent and ISTAT adjustments (rent) when seeking agreement on amounts or increases.
  • Disputes on repairs or maintenance (repair) when habitability is at issue.
  • Issues related to evictions or notices (eviction) when you want to avoid enforcement proceedings.
  • Disagreements on contract clauses or territorial agreements (form) that require written clarification.
Always document payments, communications and repair requests with photos and receipts.

How to prepare: documents and evidence

Before starting mediation, gather a copy of the registered contract, payment receipts, emails or registered mail communications and photographs of the habitability issues. If there are territorial agreements or attestations on ISTAT adjustments, bring copies of those documents.

Clear documentation increases the chances of reaching a quick agreement.

Costs and timing

Mediation costs vary: some venues offer discounted or free rates for minor disputes, while others require a fee proportional to the dispute value. Scheduling and response times are often quicker than judicial times, but it is important to meet deadlines to avoid losing rights or procedural terms.

Always respond to conciliation communications within the indicated deadlines to avoid jeopardizing the procedure.

Practical examples and references

Example 1: disputed ISTAT adjustment. The tenant sends a clarification request to the landlord with proof and proposes mediation; both parties agree on the calculation method and sign a written settlement. Example 2: repair request not fulfilled; the tenant collects quotes, photos and sends a formal request before proposing mediation.

Practical steps to start the procedure

  • Check deadlines: review any time limits to respond to formal notices or warnings.
  • Prepare documents: compile the contract, receipts, photos, quotes and all communications.
  • Contact a mediation body or local public service for information on how to register the procedure.
  • Seek help: contact a tenants' association or a lawyer if the issue is complex.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mediation mandatory for rent disputes?
In many cases mediation is not mandatory but can be requested as a preliminary step; it depends on the subject matter and local agreements.
How long does mediation take?
Many procedures conclude in a few weeks or months, but timing depends on the availability of the parties and the mediation body.
Do I have to pay for conciliation?
There may be costs; some venues offer exemptions or reduced fees for housing disputes.
What happens if no agreement is reached?
If no agreement is reached you can still go to court; mediation does not remove the right to take legal action.

How to

  1. Contact the body: verify requirements and documentation needed to open the mediation file.
  2. Gather evidence: prepare a file with the contract, receipts and photographs to submit to the mediator.
  3. Send the request: file the application following the body's instructions and attach the necessary documents.
  4. Attend the meeting: present your account, listen to the other party and consider settlement proposals.
  5. Formalize the agreement: if reached, sign a record that binds the parties; keep a signed copy.

Key takeaways

  • Mediation can save time and costs compared to court proceedings.
  • Complete documentation is essential to obtain concrete results.
  • Seeking help from public services or associations can facilitate the process.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Normattiva: consult national legislation
  2. [2] Agenzia delle Entrate: contract registration and RLI form

Categories

Types of rental contracts (4+4, 3+2, temporary, student) Term, renewal, and landlord termination Tenant early termination for serious reasons (6-month notice) Contract registration and taxes (RLI, 30 days) Cedolare secca option and rent/ISTAT indexation Rent updates (ISTAT) and local agreements (with attestation) Security deposit and legal interest (max 3 months) Service charges and condominium fees Maintenance and repairs (ordinary vs extraordinary) Property condition, inventory, and return Viewings, landlord access, and works Energy Performance Certificate (APE) Subletting and assignment Arrears and eviction procedures Pets and condominium rules Tenant residence registration Guarantees: surety and guarantor Tax relief for tenants (IRPEF deductions) Short-term lets and tourist rentals Privacy and documents in rentals (GDPR)
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.

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