Zoe K. Says:
Do apartment buildings in Italy charge HOA fees? How does it work there and how much does it cost?
IL Contributor Valerie Fortney-Schneider Writes:
Apartment dwellers in Italy usually have to pay spese condominiale—annual costs for heating, cleaning, maintenance, and concierge services (if applicable). These will usually apply whether you’re renting or own an apartment.
The costs vary wildly and depend on the age, size, and location of the building; whether heating is centralized; whether there’s an elevator; and how many residents are sharing the cost. If a garage is part of the building, this will also increase charges.
Charges can be as low as €300 ($325) per year, but the average in provincial towns is around €1,300 ($1,410) annually and can be much higher in major cities.
As most apartments are individually owned, the residence is collectively managed by the owners of the individual apartments. Regular meetings are held in which expenses are discussed and decisions made.
An amministratore (housing administrator), required by law for buildings with more than four apartments, usually oversees the meetings, takes minutes, and keeps track of the building’s finances.
Tenants are usually responsible for paying the condominium fees. Sometimes they’re included in the monthly rental cost, but not always. Before signing a rental agreement, ask if spese are included. Agencies often advertise rentals without mentioning these fees at all.
Read more about the pros and cons of living in Italy here.
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