Locatore (Lessor/Landlord)

The party who rents out a property in a lease contract. The locatore could be the property owner or someone with the right to sublet. The locatore’s main obligations are to deliver the property in good condition, ensure it is maintained such that it’s suitable for the agreed use, and respect the tenant’s rights to quiet enjoyment. The locatore bears extraordinary maintenance (e.g. structural repairs, roof, etc.), while the tenant usually handles minor maintenance. The landlord can only increase rent as stipulated (often by ISTAT inflation or as per contract terms) and must register the lease. In case of tenant default (like unpaid rent), the locatore must go through a legal procedure (sfratto for morosità) to repossess the property – they cannot self-evict. The locatore also has rights: to receive timely rent, to have the property returned undamaged (except normal wear), and to retain the deposito cauzionale for any unpaid amounts or damages at lease end (with justification). Upon sale, a new owner generally assumes the locatore role with the existing tenant.