In 30 seconds
Before the first wall is touched, check which permit applies and who files it, then sign a written contract with the builder that states the works, the price method, the schedule and payments by stage. Problems are far cheaper to prevent than to litigate, especially when you live abroad.
A stone farmhouse, a flat in a historic center, a seaside apartment: renovation is where many foreign owners meet their first Italian dispute. The causes are repeated: works started without the right permit, verbal agreements, payments in advance and nobody supervising on site.
Permits come first
Depending on the works, you need a notice, a certified start of works or a building permit under the Building Code. A surveyor or architect files it. In historic centers, protected areas or listed buildings, other authorities may have to approve, and in a condominium the assembly may have to approve works on common parts. Ask for the permit documents before you pay a deposit.
The contract with the builder
A works contract (appalto) is an agreement where the contractor carries out works for a price (art. 1655 Civil Code). Put it in writing and include:
- A detailed description of the works and the drawings.
- How the price is set (fixed or by measurement) and how extras are approved in writing.
- Payments by stage tied to completed work, not large advance payments.
- Start and end dates and what happens in case of delay.
- Who supervises: a surveyor or project manager acting for you.
- Who pays for permits, waste, insurance and safety obligations.
Typical case
A problem that happens often. Typical case described in general terms: names, places and details do not refer to real people or cases.
A couple from California hires a builder in Tuscany by email and pays a large advance. The works stop halfway, the builder blames missing permits, and the surveyor finds that part of the work does not match the plans. With a written contract, payments by stage and a supervisor, the problem would have been smaller and the evidence clearer.
Facing a similar situation? You can send your documents to the firm for an assessment, from anywhere in the world.
Book a consultationDefects and time limits
The contractor is liable for defects in the work. The customer must report defects within a short deadline after discovery and bring an action within a limited time. Keep photos, messages and invoices, and write to the contractor using a method that proves delivery.
Disputes from abroad
You can run a dispute from abroad with a local lawyer and a power of attorney: see our guide. Before going to court, many disputes go through mediation or negotiation. A written contract, supervision reports and payment receipts make the difference.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a simple renovation?
It depends on the work. Ask a surveyor to identify the right title before you start.
Should I pay the builder in advance?
Avoid large advances. Link payments to completed stages.
Can I sue from the United States?
You can bring a case through an Italian lawyer, with a power of attorney, but cases take time. Prevention is cheaper.
Does a regularization help when the works already differ from the plans?
Sometimes. It depends on the works and on the rules in force. Ask a surveyor and a lawyer before selling or renovating further.
Related guides
Questions about property or an inheritance in Italy?
Every situation must be assessed on the documents of the specific case. You can consult the firm from anywhere in the world: by video call, phone, WhatsApp or email. The first meeting is held in Italian. If you speak English, a video call on Google Meet from a computer may offer Italian–English translation as a support, without any guarantee; it does not replace an interpreter or a certified translation. Appointments in person in Naples (Piazza Giovanni Bovio 22 and Via Monte di Dio 14), Rome and Bari.
Official sources
- Presidential Decree 380/2001, Building Code (Normattiva)
- Italian Civil Code, art. 1655 (Normattiva)
- Italian Civil Code, art. 1667 (Normattiva)
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: legal assistance
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: American Citizen Services
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy: contact
- U.S. Department of State: Italy country information
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: consular services and visas
Information updated on October 10, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. The firm does not advise on United States law or taxes.
Text prepared with the help of artificial intelligence tools and reviewed under the responsibility of Avv. Renato Giuseppe Fiorentino on October 10, 2026.