Four people have been arrested in the Italian region of Pavia for renting non-existent holiday homes on the island of Elba, in San Teodoro and in Marina di Grosseto. Another was reported for renting an imaginary apartment in Maiori online, and then disappearing without a trace.
Summer holidays are full of incidents like these, where bona fide, and somewhat naïve, citizens reserve their holidays on the internet, only to be victims of scams by unscrupulous people.
In the interests of safety, police in Italy have provided a tool to help people open their eyes: a guide to online shopping, including short-term rentals of holiday homes.
Another initiative being taken up by the Regional government of Lombardy is the 'reference identification code' (codice identificativo di riferimento or CIR), developed by Confcommercio to make holiday homes and apartments traceable on a short-term rental basis, for the benefit of tourists. However, this initiative will only be active from September onwards, and only in Lombardy; in the meantime, use these tips and tricks to be careful not to be fooled when you come to rent a holiday home.
Pay attention to the price
If the price offered is really low, there may be something underneath. Swindlers know that tourists often want low-cost homes, so they market their scams towards this. If the house seems suspiciously cheap, make sure you do a check of their credentials.
Correct information
If the information provided by the ad is poor or vague, it's a good idea to ask your vacation home landlord other questions. The way they respond may tell you a lot: be careful of those who want to seal the deal too quickly or who propose agreements other than those described in the advert. Always contact the owner directly before booking and check, maybe with Google Maps or something, that the accommodation actually exists or that there are not several places with the same description, because in that case something is very wrong.
Personal data
Do not give out your personal data, like ID and other documents, before establishing secure personal contact with the property owner. Identity theft is always just around the corner, and you should never provide third parties with your access credentials to the various apartment rental portals or to airline websites.
Use professional platforms
It is best to avoid responding to generic ads that are found here and there on the internet. Instead, look for real estate portals dedicated exclusively to the rental of properties, checking the veracity of ads through comments from other users. Be sure that the portal you are looking on is the official one and not a ‘cloned’ site that uses the same name as a better-known website but with a completely different web address.
Secure payment methods
When paying a deposit on a holiday rental, know that it should never exceed 20% of the total asking price. For any payment, it’s better to use traceable payment methods such as card, Paypal or a bank transfer.
Get written documentation
Even if it is not a full guarantee of the seriousness of the ad, it is always better to get written agreements than verbal agreements. Check that the proposed contract contains fair clauses and that it clarifies which services are included in the rental cost, and how much the total amount to be paid is.
How to get residency in Italy: a guide for non-EU citizens
This is often the most accessible route for those with sufficient passive income. Generally, you’ll need at least €31,000–€38,000 annually (for a single applicant) from pensions, investments, or rental income — funds that don’t require you to work in Italy.
Italy toughens penalties for squatting with prison sentences of up to seven years
The new legislation introduces harsher penalties against squatting and, more broadly, against crimes related to public safety and order.
New squatting laws in Italy: proposed penalties
A new law on squatting is to be introduced in Italy, with severe penalties for those who illegally settle in someone else's home. The government has approved amendments to the country's "Security Bill" (known in Italian as the "DDL sicurezza"), introducing a new type of offence in the Penal Code. Article 634-bis will penalise those guilty of illegal occupation of a property intended for someone else's residence, with penalties ranging from 2 to 7 years in prison.
Tourist Tax Italy: new rules for local authorities and beyond
Important changes are on the way regarding tourist tax in Italian cities and towns. A recent agreement has been signed between the government and the ANCI (National Association of Italian Municipalities) regarding the revision of this tax. The agreement came after a meeting attended by Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, Deputy Minister of Economy Maurizio Leo, and ANCI President Roberto Pella. Here’s what will change.
Working in Italy as a foreigner
Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is an attractive destination for many expats. Working in Italy as a foreigner presents unique opportunities and challenges, making it essential to understand the local job market, work culture, and legal requirements. This guide aims to provide valuable insights into finding employment, navigating the visa process, and successfully integrating into the Italian workplace. Whether you're drawn to the bustling cities, charming
Venice imposes new rules on tourists in August: smaller groups and loudspeakers banned
Venice takes another step in its unique battle against the city's excessive number of tourists. This hot summer, it has introduced new rules for travellers visiting the famous city in northern Italy. The new regulations, in effect from 1st to 31st August, limit organised groups to a maximum of 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers, including those used by tour guides.
The Italian Highway Code: navigating Italy's roads safely and legally
The Italian Highway Code, or "Codice della Strada," is the cornerstone of road safety and traffic regulation in Italy. Whether you're a local driver or a tourist planning to explore the picturesque landscapes of Italy, understanding the nuances of this comprehensive legal framework is crucial. In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the Italian Highway Code, offering insights to help you navigate Italy’s roads with confidence and compliance.