In an apartment building, the cleaning of staircases and common areas is essential for decorum and hygiene. However, when an apartment is rented out, a common question arises: Who is responsible for paying for this service? The owner (landlord) or the tenant?
We at Domus Sicilia have prepared this quick guide to clear things up and avoid misunderstandings between parties.
1. The General Rule: Ordinary Expenses
According to Italian law (Art. 9 of Law 392/78) and standard lease agreements, the breakdown is quite simple:
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The Tenant is responsible for paying for ordinary cleaning services. This includes the fees for the cleaning company or the individual performing the cleaning.
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The Owner is responsible for extraordinary expenses (such as repainting the staircase walls or the full replacement of damaged marble steps).
2. Beyond Cleaning: Electricity and Maintenance
Besides dirt removal, there are other costs associated with the staircase:
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Electricity: The cost of lighting the stairs is borne by the tenant, as they are the one using the service daily.
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Elevator Maintenance: Costs for ordinary operation and power are charged to the tenant, while the replacement of motors or cables (extraordinary maintenance) is the owner's responsibility.
3. Can Residents Clean the Stairs Themselves?
Sometimes, to save money, residents decide to take turns cleaning. However, be aware:
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The condominium assembly cannot force a condo owner or a tenant to physically clean the stairs.
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If a tenant refuses to take their turn, the landlord cannot compel them, but the service must still be guaranteed (usually through an external company, with the costs falling back on the tenant).
4. What Happens in Case of Non-Payment?
If the tenant fails to pay the condominium fees related to staircase cleaning:
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The condominium will always seek payment from the owner (who is the sole legal party responsible to the building management).
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The owner then has the right to demand reimbursement from the tenant. If the debt for "accessory charges" (utilities/fees) exceeds two months' rent, the owner can even seek to terminate the lease agreement.
Domus Sicilia's Advice: When signing a lease, ensure that the division of expenses is clear from the very beginning. Proper management of accessory charges is the secret to a peaceful and lasting relationship between landlord and tenant.
Tired of Condominium Disputes? If managing shared spaces causes you too much stress and you dream of absolute independence, it might be time to consider buying a detached house or an independent property. With Domus Sicilia, finding a property with no condo fees and plenty of private space is easier than you think.
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