Regarding building permits, there is a category of projects that can be carried out without requesting building permits from the relevant municipality. These projects are defined as “free construction” and include all those for which authorizations are not required, as defined in the Consolidated Law on Building (Presidential Decree 380/2001).Testo Unico dell’Edilizia ( DPR 380/2001)
Which interventions are permitted without municipal authorizations?
In compliance with all applicable laws and various municipal regulations, there are, therefore, certain works that can be carried out as free construction.
Removable Panoramic Windows Without a Permit
Free construction projects include removable transparent panoramic windows, provided they meet certain requirements. These requirements include:
protection from atmospheric agents;
improvement of acoustic and energy performance;
reduction of heat loss;
waterproofing, if installed on balconies. This is not permitted if the enclosure entails an increase in volume and surface area, a practice that would fall under construction with municipal permits. These structures must also allow and promote natural micro-ventilation.
Be aware, however, that the line between panoramic windows and verandas is very thin; it is therefore advisable to consult a professional to avoid a building violation.
Renovating Exterior and Interior Flooring
Renovating floors, whether internally, on balconies, or externally, is a routine maintenance project designed to maintain the building and ensure the safety of its occupants. Whether it’s a repair or a complete renovation, no permit is required.
Replacing Windows Without a Permit
The third project that can be carried out without a permit is replacing window frames of any type or shape in your home. In this case, the project is permitted without a permit only if no masonry work or changes to the shape and size of the windows themselves are performed. In this case, a formal application with the relevant technical documentation must be submitted to the relevant municipality.
Bathroom Renovation
Bathroom renovations can also be included in free construction projects, provided they merely involve replacing fixtures and removing and replacing wall coverings. Even work on utilities can be considered free construction, provided there are no masonry or structural works. In this case, a CILA or SCIA (Certificate of Infrastructure and Building Code) is required.
Facade Painting
A fifth work that can be done without a permit is painting exterior facades, unless the building is subject to restrictions or is located in specific areas of the city center. However, if you wish to benefit from tax incentives, such as the Facade Bonus, special documents and self-certification are required to access the credit.
Installing Parapets on Balconies and Terraces
Balustrades and parapets are also included in the list of work that can be done without special permits. This applies to both new installations and their repair or replacement.
Renovation and Landscaping
Paving, lighting, irrigation, and tool shed work, of limited size, relating to home green areas, can be carried out through free construction. This also includes any construction or demolition of masonry furnishings or planters. The major change concerns gazebos and pergolas. If they are small and limited in size compared to the land use, they can be considered free construction projects.
Removal of Architectural Barriers
Works designed to eliminate architectural barriers, such as the construction of access ramps, also fall under free construction projects. Elevators and freight elevators are also considered, provided they do not affect the building’s structural components.
There are also other projects, in addition to those just mentioned, that can be considered free construction projects: electrical system overhaul and compliance, boiler replacement with a heat pump, installation of electric vehicle charging stations, and even repairs to domestic systems, such as drains, air conditioning, and the installation of suspended ceilings.
Free construction and tax incentives: how they work
The broad category of free construction includes both extraordinary and ordinary maintenance work. There wouldn’t be any problems, except that these interventions are also eligible for tax incentives. And since they aren’t mandatory for free construction, how can you qualify for the deductions?
According to a circular from the Revenue Agency (7/2021), a self-certification is required stating the start date of the works, certifying that the building renovation work carried out falls within those eligible for tax relief. To find out which interventions can be considered free construction, it’s a good idea to check and consult the “Free Construction Glossary.”
In any case, to avoid mistakes and potential penalties, it’s always best to rely on professionals in the sector.