11/23/2010 by Margarita Millere Latvia
So you found an accommodation of your dream, or at least somewhere to live for a while. What you should do and know before getting in? One of the most important steps is to find out all the details of your deal. Contract – whether your landlord would like to make a contract (it is a legal must, but it is being avoided by many), how much is the monthly rent, whether the landlord asks for caparra (deposit), whether it includes condominio (i.e. rubbish collection, cleaning of staircases, portineria etc.), electricity, gas, water. Check whether your water is being heated by gas or electricity (electricity tends to be more expensive option, but not always); in case if you are planning to stay for winter check also what kind of heating you have (yes, Italy is a warm country, but still you most likely will use heater during winter months). Ask landlord about the payment procedures – how much, when, how, what (whether the bills are included in the fee or not). Normally the landlord should show you the bills and in the best case – give a copy, otherwise he could charge you an amount he wishes.Be careful when you get the contract – reread it, even if your landlord is very nice person. He/she might change dramatically when you decide to leave the property. If you have a contract, it should be registered – this should be done by your landlord and costs for that normally are shared between the parties. There is a possibility, that you will have a contract, but not registered. In any case – whether you have a contract or not, whenever you give money to your landlord, make sure that you will receive written statement that he/she has received them. This is important in case of disputes, which could arise when you decide to move out. Finally, your stay in Italy came to an end or you just have decided to change the place and you would like to leave your apartment. Make sure that you inform the landlord about your plans in advance (1 week or 3 months - whatever is written in a contract by sending registered letter), because otherwise they might not give you your caparra (deposit). Caparra officially is taken in case if you make any damages to the furniture, but this rule often is being abused and landlords are taking capara also in case if you want to leave earlier than the planned date. These are the main points you have to be careful about when arranging an accommodation in Italy. If you have anything to add, comment or would like to share your experience – you are more than welcome to use comments section below. But for now – have a lovely stay! :-)
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LIVING IN ROME
11/23/2010
11/23/2010
