Construction in Italy is based on a complex regulatory framework, which directly impacts citizens and professionals in the sector. The distinction between works that require a communication of commencement of activity (Cila) and those for which a declaration in lieu of the affidavit is sufficient is a key piece in navigating this regulatory labyrinth.
A recent clarification from FiscoOggi sheds light on which building interventions fall into this second category, revealing opportunities and simplifications for property owners intending to enhance or maintain their assets.
This article explores the subject, outlining which works can benefit from this simplified regime and how to make the most of it.
The reference legislation
Legislative decree no. 222 of 2016 regulated building interventions in Italy, introducing a clear classification of building activities and the administrative acts necessary for their implementation.
This legislation has simplified the bureaucratic landscape, outlining four main categories:
- “totally free” construction activity (find out more here),
- interventions “in free activity” subject to Cila (find out more here),
- construction activity that requires a building permit (find out more here),
- the “super SCIA” and “SCIA” categories for the remaining interventions (find out more here).
The distinction between these categories is essential to understand the steps to follow before undertaking any construction work, ensuring compliance with current regulations and access to any tax breaks.
Which jobs do not require CILA
Italian law allows a series of building interventions to be carried out without the need to submit the CILA, focusing on routine maintenance and specific improvements that do not involve significant structural changes. These works, although minor, play a crucial role in maintaining and improving the quality and safety of properties.
For example, the interventions of bringing buildings up to standard and technological systems are essential to guarantee the safety of occupants and the energy efficiency of properties. This includes updating electrical and plumbing systems to more recent standards, as well as installing more efficient and less polluting heating systems.
The works aimed at prevention of the risk of illicit actssuch as the installation of security systems or the improvement of locks and accesses, increase the security of buildings, protecting inhabitants from possible intrusions.
Interventions aimed at achieving energy savings and the adoption of renewable sourcessuch as the installation of solar panels or the replacement of fixtures for better insulation, are incentivized not only for the reduction of energy consumption but also for the contribution to environmental sustainability.
Finally, the preventive measures against domestic accidentswhich may include the installation of smoke detectors, child safety barriers, and non-slip flooring, are essential to creating a safe home environment for all its occupants.
These examples illustrate the wide spectrum of works which, although not requiring CILA, are of vital importance for safety, efficiency and well-being in Italian homes, showing how the legislation seeks to facilitate and incentivize such interventions.
Conclusion
The Italian building legislation offers a simplified way for numerous ordinary maintenance and improvement interventions on properties, exempting them from the need to present the Affirmed Notice of Commencement of Works (CILA).
This bureaucratic facilitation not only encourages owners to keep buildings in good condition and invest in safety and energy efficiency, but also contributes to environmental sustainability and the quality of urban life.
The key to taking advantage of these opportunities is in-depth knowledge of current regulations and administrative procedures, an indispensable step for every owner or professional in the construction sector who aims to enhance their real estate assets in a responsible and conscious manner.