Ita

Tips before signing a contract

Below are some practical guidelines to help you navigate the rental process more safely and confidently.

A Proper (Regular) Contract

A rental agreement in Italy must always be in writing and in Italian. Verbal agreements should be avoided, as they often lead to misunderstandings between landlord and tenant.
If this is your first time dealing with a lease, take your time. Do not feel pressured to sign quickly out of fear of losing the opportunity—it is your right to fully understand every clause.
Carefully review the contract, ask questions, and request a copy or draft in advance. Agree on a deadline with the landlord to provide your response, and consider having the document reviewed by a professional (such as a lawyer or tenants’ association) or Staff SAIS.

What to Check in the Contract?

  • Make sure the agreement complies with Law No. 431/98.

A valid contract must include the essential elements required by the Civil Code, such as:

  • Full details of both parties (landlord and tenant). Please Note: If you are an international student, your Italian tax code must be included. For more info, click here
  • A clear description of the property, including cadastral (registry) data.
  • Duration of the lease: it is advisable to clearly communicate the length of your stay from the beginning.
  • Rent amount and payment terms.

Key Clauses to Review Carefully:

Withdrawal (Early Termination): always ensure this clause is included. In shared contracts, one tenant may leave early, but the remaining tenants remain responsible for the full rent. Check whether the contract allows for a replacement tenant. For more info, click here

  • Takeover (Replacement): in joint contracts, confirm that the agreement allows a new tenant to replace a departing one.
  • Unfair Terms: watch out for clauses that place excessive obligations on the tenant (for example, giving the landlord the right to restrict access to the property in case of late payment).
  • Return of deposit: if not stipulated in the contract, it is necessary to detail how the deposit will be returned. Under Law no. 392/78, Art. 11, the security deposit cannot exceed three months’ rent and must be returned at the end of the lease unless there is damage to the property.
  • Check the Condition of the Property: Before signing, carefully check the condition of the apartment. This helps identify any pre-existing damage or necessary repairs. This will make it easier to return the property without disputes at the end of the lease. It is also strongly recommended to prepare an entry report and/or take photos at the time of signing.
  • Expenses and Utilities: There are different ways in which expenses and utilities may be managed. Generally, for shorter contracts, the landlord decides the payment method.
    • Payment of a fixed fee with adjustment at the end of the period;
    • a lump-sum payment based on previous bills,
    • or payment based on actual consumption shared among tenants upon presentation of invoices.
    • In some cases, utilities may be registered in the tenant’s name, either by transferring an existing contract or activating a new one. In both situations, the costs are borne by the tenant. Please note: this option is more common for medium- to long-term stays.

Useful tips

  • It is advisable to pay the rent and deposit only after the agreement has been formalized. You should NEVER give or transfer money without receiving a receipt or without having verified the landlord’s identity.
  • Once the agreement has been finalized, make sure that the contract is properly registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate. It also important that you request the relevant receipt from the landlord.
  • Beyond the formal aspects of written agreements, clauses, terms, and guarantees, experience shows that transparency and clarity are essential elements for ensuring a smooth and cooperative relationship between the parties throughout the lease.
  • If you choose to proceed independently, it is advisable to exercise particular caution, especially if you are not familiar with rental contracts.

If you have any concerns, consider seeking advice or contacting SAIS Staff.