Home Renovation: 21 Permissible Upgrades You Can Make Without a Permit

Home Renovation: When You Can Bypass Permits

When renovating a home, there are specific interventions that can be executed without the need for permits, authorizations, or official titles.
It is essential to follow designated procedures during a renovation, including the submission of Cila, Scia, or a building permit.
However, certain construction activities fall under the category of “edilizia libera” (free construction), meaning no applications or approvals are required.

Edilizia libera encompasses both ordinary and extraordinary maintenance work.
It’s crucial to underline that even when performing such tasks, adherence to existing regulations and ensuring the safety of individuals and properties must always be prioritized.
The regulations governing these interventions are outlined in Article 6 of the Consolidated Building Act, while the Salva Casa Decree, effective from May 30, 2024, has expanded the list of permitted activities.

Examples of Permitted Interventions

Many interventions can be executed without requesting permits, including:

Flooring Changes

Changing floors throughout your home, on balconies, terraces, or in gardens doesn’t require any authorization.
Nonetheless, hygiene and health standards must be observed.
If you decide against removing the old flooring and place the new one atop it, evaluating the additional weight the structure will need to support is advisable to ensure safety compliance.

Replacing Windows and Doors

The replacement of windows and shutters falls within edilizia libera.
Gradually aging windows not only wear down but also become less efficient.
New installations offer better thermal and acoustic insulation, resulting in notable energy savings for the property.

Electrical Systems

Revamping the electrical system and bringing it up to code might seem like a significant task; however, necessary repairs, replacements, or updates are considered as free construction.
These can be carried out without any authorization.

Bathroom Remodeling

Even though remodeling a bathroom seems extensive, if it involves merely replacing fixtures, flooring, and finishing touches, such work may not require a Scia and thus falls under edilizia libera.
However, if the renovations impact structural components (like the ceiling), a Scia would be necessary.

Paiting the Building’s Exterior

When considering exterior painting, it’s often assumed that permission is required.
In most cases, this isn’t true unless the building is situated in a historically protected area.
However, do remember that if scaffolding is needed, payments for public space occupation will apply.

Boiler Replacement

Replacing an old boiler or installing a heat pump falls under free construction, where maintaining safety and enhancing energy efficiency are integral benefits.

Additional Permitted Interventions

The list of interventions that don’t necessitate authorization is quite extensive, including:

• Installation of solar panels
• Replacement or repair of exterior lighting
• Replacement of gutters and downspouts
• Removal of architectural barriers
• Installation of internal elevators or lifts
• Ceiling installations
• Installation or replacement of air conditioning systems

From garden enhancements to energy efficiency upgrades, these activities allow homeowners to improve their properties while maintaining compliance with safety regulations and requirements.