SCIA (Segnalazione Certificata di Inizio Attività)

A Certified Notice of Commencement of Activity – a procedure by which certain construction works or changes of use can be started almost immediately upon submitting the required documentation to the Comune, rather than waiting for a permit. Introduced in 2010, the SCIA replaced the old DIA in many cases. With a SCIA, a qualified technician (engineer/architect) asseverates that the planned works comply with all regulations. Upon submission, work can begin the same day (in theory), and the Comune has 30 days to inspect or object (they can halt works if non-compliant). SCIA is typically used for: extraordinary maintenance affecting structure, internal layout changes involving structural mods, change of building use within certain categories, etc. Some heavier works (like extending building volume) need a permesso di costruire, and lighter ones a CILA. There’s also SCIA alternativa al permesso for some renovations that would normally require a permit. In practice, SCIA has become a common route for remodels because it’s faster – but the responsibility lies heavily on the certifying technician. After works, an update to the cadastral plan and possibly a new certificate of agibilità will be needed. As a buyer, if major renovation was done via SCIA, ask for the compliance certificates and SCIA protocol from the seller.