If you are about to purchase a home, whether it is your first experience or several years have passed since your last purchase, you will realize how important the required certifications are before proceeding with the transaction.
You may hear acronyms such as APE (Energy Performance Certificate), integrated technical report, calculation of the registration tax, and many other bureaucratic terms that can be difficult to fully understand.
When you choose Eusebi Case for your real estate transaction, we are not exaggerating when we say we offer comprehensive consultancy. On this page, you will find all the information you need about the required documentation to ensure a smooth and trouble-free purchasing process.
Integrated Technical Report
One of the most common mistakes made by potential buyers is underestimating the importance of the “integrated technical report.”
The integrated technical report is simply a document that certifies the property for sale and confirms that there are no unauthorized modifications requiring subsequent regularization.
But why should you pay particular attention to this document?
In Italy, as many as 80% of properties present building irregularities, meaning construction works carried out without the necessary permits or not declared to the competent technical office.
The buyer of a property inherits not only ownership, but also responsibility for any building violations, which may result in significant financial penalties.
At Eusebi Case, we strongly advise all our clients to request this important report, as it provides effective protection for the buyer. The integrated technical report ensures that the property is fully compliant with current regulations. If the seller has carried out unauthorized modifications, it will be their responsibility to regularize them at their own expense.
The time required to obtain an integrated technical report may vary, but the process is generally relatively quick. A property free of irregularities represents an advantage for both buyer and seller, as it allows for a faster and smoother transaction, ensuring peace of mind for both parties and reducing the risk of legal claims and compensation requests.
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Energy Performance Certificate (APE)
Energy Performance Certificate (APE): Guide and Requirements
The Energy Performance Certificate, known as APE, is a document introduced by Decree 63/2013 and plays a fundamental role in certifying the energy characteristics of your property.
The property’s energy rating is expressed on a scale from A to G, depending on its energy efficiency. Class A represents the highest standard, indicating that the property is highly energy efficient.
The building’s energy class is directly related to energy dispersion and annual savings on consumption. In practical terms, the higher the energy class, the greater the energy savings and, consequently, the higher the property’s value.
Furthermore, Law 90/2013 establishes that providing the APE is mandatory when selling any type of residential or commercial property. This document is valid for ten years.
Below are some of the cases in which the Energy Performance Certificate is mandatory:
Sale: In the deed of sale, it is mandatory to state the existence of this document and confirm that the buyer has received it (pursuant to Law 192/05).
Lease: In the case of a lease, it is also essential to declare that all information regarding the property’s energy performance has been provided. Although it is not necessary to attach the APE to the contract, it is important to confirm its availability, as it may be requested during negotiations.
New Constructions: Newly built properties must be provided with an Energy Performance Certificate, ensuring compliance with current regulations. This offers potential buyers greater assurance regarding the property’s energy consumption.
Structural Works: The APE must be updated or reissued in the event of works affecting more than 25% of the entire structure or involving construction and demolition activities. In the case of significant renovations, an Energy Qualification Certificate is also required to verify the building’s compliance with energy regulations upon completion of the works.
Property Donation: If a property is transferred as a gift (free of charge), the Energy Performance Certificate is not mandatory, although it may still be advisable to provide it.
Who can issue an APE?
The Energy Performance Certificate must be prepared by a qualified and independent technician with expertise in building and system design. This professional may be an architect, surveyor, or engineer and is commonly referred to as an “energy certifier.”
Registration Tax
The registration tax in a property transaction is a tax that must be paid in Italy when purchasing real estate, such as a house or land. This tax is one of the main costs associated with buying property and is calculated based on the purchase price declared in the deed of sale.
Here is how registration tax works in real estate transactions:
Rate: The registration tax rate may vary depending on several factors, including the type of property (for example, whether it is a primary residence or a second home, building land, or other), the region where the property is located, and the purchase value. The rates may differ for the purchase of a first home compared to another property.
Calculation: The registration tax is calculated by applying the rate to the purchase price declared in the notarial deed. It is important to note that in Italy the declared price is sometimes different from the actual purchase price, and the Revenue Agency may carry out checks to ensure the accuracy of the declarations.
First Home: For a first home, a reduced rate usually applies compared to second homes or commercial properties. This encourages the purchase of primary residences.
Registration: The deed of sale must be registered with the Registration Office. The registration tax must be paid before the deed is registered.
Exemptions and Benefits: In certain circumstances, exemptions or tax benefits may apply. For example, there may be incentives for purchasing properties in specific geographical areas or for certain categories of buyers, such as young couples.
It is important to note that the registration tax represents only part of the costs associated with purchasing property in Italy. Other costs include notary fees, mortgage and cadastral taxes, real estate agency commissions, as well as any legal expenses.
To obtain precise information regarding registration tax in a specific transaction, it is advisable to consult a notary or a tax professional who can provide a detailed assessment of the costs and taxes associated with the desired property purchase.