Tenant Appeals and Complaints in Italy
If you are a tenant in Italy facing a dispute over rent, an ISTAT adjustment or territorial agreements, this guide explains how to prepare a clear and effective appeal or complaint. You will find practical guidance on deadlines to meet, which documents to collect (contract, receipts, communications), how to prove rent changes and when to seek legal or union help. Included are concrete examples of contract registration and tax options such as cedolare secca, plus advice on how to send communications to the landlord and public registry. The goal is to help you protect your rights without complicated jargon, providing concrete steps to follow in Italy.
When to file an appeal or complaint
Consider acting when a rent change or a landlord's conduct threatens your tenant rights.
- Rent increase that is not agreed or not justified.
- Incorrect calculation of ISTAT adjustment or missing certification.
- Maintenance issues that make the property uninhabitable.
- Formal notices not received or irregular.
Documents and evidence to collect
To support an appeal collect key documents and organize evidence in chronological order.
- Registered lease and any attachments.
- Rent payment receipts and adjustment calculations.
- Photos, written communications, emails and messages as evidence.
- Copies of any letters or unauthorized entries.
Deadlines and practical procedures
Check the time limits to file complaints or appeals and respect the deadlines indicated by law and local agreements[1]. If the issue concerns registration or contractual changes, also consult the instructions for the RLI form for contract registration[2].
Key takeaways
- Gather clear evidence before submitting a complaint.
- Meet all notification and appeal deadlines.
- Seek free or union assistance if needed.
FAQ
- When can I file a complaint about a rent increase?
- You can file a complaint when the increase is not provided for in the lease or not supported by valid calculations.
- What evidence is needed to challenge an ISTAT adjustment?
- Calculation documents, landlord communications, payment receipts and any applicable territorial agreements.
- How long do I have to act?
- Deadlines vary: it is important to act promptly and check specific time limits set by law or local agreements.
How to
- Gather lease, receipts, photos and communications.
- Send a written complaint to the landlord by registered letter or PEC.
- If necessary, request assistance from a union or a lawyer.
- If the dispute is not resolved, consider court appeal or mediation.
