How much can the deposit be?
Italian Law 392/1978, Article 11 states that a security deposit cannot exceed three months of rent. That is an important reference point when you compare move-in costs in Milan.
The security deposit is different from rent paid in advance, condominium charges, an agency commission or a service fee. Ask for every upfront amount to be itemised separately.
What the deposit is for
The deposit protects the landlord against obligations that may remain unpaid at the end of the tenancy, such as damage beyond normal wear or other sums due under the agreement. It should not be treated as an automatic final month of rent unless the parties explicitly agree.
Before you pay
- Confirm the full legal identity of the landlord or agency
- Check that the property address matches the agreement
- Ask for the deposit amount to appear in writing
- Use a traceable payment method
- Keep the payment receipt
- Document the condition of the apartment at check-in with dated photos/video
- Keep the signed inventory if one is provided
Deposit vs advance rent
A request for three months' deposit plus one or more months of rent in advance can create a large move-in bill. They are different items. The Italian Revenue Agency also distinguishes the security deposit in its rental-registration guidance.
FAQ
Can a landlord ask for four months as a security deposit?
For residential leases covered by Article 11 of Law 392/1978, the statutory ceiling stated in the law is three months of rent. If a proposal uses different structures or labels, get the amounts clarified before paying.
When should I photograph the apartment?
At check-in, before your belongings make the original condition harder to document.
Is the deposit the same as an agency fee?
No. A deposit is connected to the tenancy; an agency commission is a separate transaction cost.