Tenants in Italy: who pays for keys and readings
When a tenant moves out or a lease ends, understanding who pays for handing over keys and meter readings is essential to avoid disputes. This practical guide explains typical responsibilities in Italy, how to document electricity, water and gas readings, and what to do about ordinary expenses or repairs. You will find examples on contract registration, the flat tax option (cedolare secca) and territorial agreements for ISTAT updates, plus advice on receipts and written communications. The information helps both tenants and landlords clarify obligations, reduce the risk of improper charges and prepare useful evidence in case of disputes.
Who pays: general rules
Generally, costs related to key handover and meter readings can be split between contractual obligations, actual consumption and maintenance works. The law on residential leases sets general principles and leaves room for contractual clauses, so always check your contract and the registered rent[1]. When the contract assigns visits or readings to the tenant, the request should be documented to avoid disputes.
Meters and key handover: common practices
- Note and photograph gas, water and electricity readings at the time of handover.
- Agree in writing on the place and time to hand over keys with the landlord or building manager.
- Check any final bills or adjustments and ask for receipts for payments made.
Document readings and payments
To protect your rights, send a written communication (email with read receipt or registered letter) with the readings and invite the landlord to confirm in writing. If the landlord charges unexpected costs, request an itemized bill and proof of the expense. For contract registration and official forms see the Revenue Agency guidance[2].
- Send copies of readings by email or registered letter and keep proof of sending.
- Request receipts for any payments for cleaning, keys or repairs.
- Respect contractual deadlines for handover and ask for written time to raise disputes.
Rights, penalties and disputes
If you cannot resolve a dispute with the landlord, collect all documentation and consider conciliation or, if necessary, legal action in civil court or the Justice of the Peace depending on the amount. Keep a record of communications and evidence: photos, emails, receipts and signatures can make a difference in a dispute.
Frequently asked questions
- Who should read meters at the end of the lease?
- Usually the reading is done together or by agreement; the responsible party is the one consuming until the actual termination date, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
- Can the landlord charge for lost keys?
- Yes, if the cost is real, documented and provided for in the contract or justified by a need to replace locks for security reasons.
- What to do if the landlord charges unjustified expenses?
- Gather evidence, send a written request for details and, if unresolved, consider legal assistance or recourse to the competent court.
How to
- Agree date and time for key handover and meter reading a few days in advance.
- Take and photograph readings together with the landlord or manager; save images with date and time.
- Send readings and property condition by email or registered letter and keep proof of sending.
- Request receipts for any final payments and verify bills or adjustments.
- If no agreement is reached, seek mediation or legal help before pursuing court actions.
Key takeaways
- Always document readings and key handover with photos and receipts.
- Use written communications to fix agreements and deadlines.
- Ask for receipts for every payment and check final bills.
