What planning permission will I need to obtain to carry out restoration work?

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The permission required to restore property in Italy depends on the work you wish to carry out. Let's take an example of the new owner wishing to fit new doors, windows and a central heating system or other electrical fittings. In this case an authorised Geometra (local architect/engineer) has to submit the plans/project to the local council at least 20 days prior to the commencement of the work. This type of project is called "D.I.A."

VIlla after renovationAnother scenario may be you wish to make structural changes to the property such as restoring the roof or addressing problems with the walls or foundations. In this case a project has to be submitted to the council and approved by a specific department "Commissione Ediliza". Approval will take slightly longer in this case, approximately two months, and taxes of around 5% of the restoration costs become payable.

The renovation may also require a seismic study.

Note: Some of our properties already have planning permission to build. Use our search page to find your own property in Italy.


How do I deal with local tradesmen and suppliers?

The Geometra and the purchaser usually prepare a plan logo designs service to the work that needs to be done to complete the restoration. The Geometra then approaches local firms/tradesmen and invites estimates for the work. In conjunction with the purchaser a decision is made as to whom the work should be awarded to. It is worth noting that the lowest price may not always be the best value for money.

Property completely restoredMany of our Italy properties have been built in stone, which need tradesmen who are experienced in working with this material. It is also true to say that our Geometras will approach only those firms and tradesmen who have a proven track record in this type of renovation work and whose ability and reputation for reliability are well known. The Geometras, knowing the likely cost of any restoration, will be able to independently verify the estimates for the work provided by the building contractors.

Obviously during such projects unforeseen circumstances arise where additional work may be required. We suggest that if this is the case a fixed rate per hour or fixed cost is agreed before the extra work is carried out.

Once the building contractors have been decided the Geometra will draw up a contract which will contain details of the costs, the date that the work commences, duration of the work and payment schedule (a deposit is usually payable and further payments, at agreed intervals, as the work progresses). The contract should also include a penalty clause, if the work extends beyond the agreed dates. (It should be noted that the weather may make building work impossible, so some leeway should be considered.)

In some situations the purchaser provides a safety plan of the work, this can be prepared by the Geometra.