Security Deposit and Final Cleaning: Tenants Italy
Many tenants in Italy wonder who must pay for final cleaning and how the security deposit is used for damages or expenses. This guide explains simply what a landlord can withhold, when deposit interest may apply and how to prove the apartment's condition at the end of the lease. You will find practical examples on registration, communications and refund requests, plus steps to contest unfair withholdings. The goal is to help you protect the security deposit and understand your rights without technical language, with references to relevant rules and official forms to carry out necessary actions in Italy.
What the landlord can withhold
Generally the security deposit can cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent and agreed charges. Withholdings must be justified and documented with receipts or estimates.
- deposit (deposito): covers unpaid rent or evident damages.
- repairs (riparazioni): costs to restore damaged parts beyond normal use.
- evidence (foto): photos and an inventory upon key return serve as proof.
How to document condition and cleaning
Before leaving the property take photos of every room, keep receipts for professional cleaning if you pay them and request a receipt from the landlord for any deductions from the deposit. If possible, schedule a handover meeting with a signed report by both parties. When referencing laws or contract terms, include references to the written contract and, if useful, to legal texts to frame the request.[1]
Deposit calculation and interest
In many cases the deposit does not yield significant interest for the landlord unless otherwise agreed; always check the contract and applicable regulations. For tax and registration matters, follow the Revenue Agency instructions and use the RLI Form when required.[2]
When to contest a withholding
If the landlord withholds part or all of the deposit without explanations or documents, send a written dispute with copies of evidence (photos, receipts, estimates). If you receive no response, consider legal assistance or filing a claim with the competent Court or, for small amounts, the Justice of the Peace. Always keep copies of every communication sent or received.
Practical example
If you return the apartment clean but the landlord claims professional cleaning for €200, request invoice or receipt and compare with handover photos; if unjustified, you can request the return of the deposit for the improperly withheld portion.
Domande frequenti
- Who pays final cleaning if the contract does not specify it?
- If the contract does not specify payment, it is generally the tenant's responsibility if the property is not returned in the agreed condition; however the landlord must document costs and damages.
- Can the deposit be used for normal wear and tear?
- No, the deposit should not cover normal wear and tear; it is withheld only for excess damages or unpaid charges.
- How do I request return of the deposit?
- Send a written request to the landlord with receipts and photos, indicating when you expect the return; if there is no response, consider legal action.
How to
- Document condition with dated photos and an inventory before handing over the keys.
- Send the landlord a registered letter or certified email with the refund request and copies of evidence.
- Ask for invoices or receipts for any costs charged against the deposit.
- If unresolved, file a claim at the court or Justice of the Peace with all documentation.
Quick summary
- Always document the property's condition with photos and an inventory.
- Communicate in writing and keep proof of every sending.
