Renting in Rome is tough. The high demand for accommodation means that landlords can afford to be choosy. In practice, this means they prefer tenants they perceive to be lower risk: namely, Italians, or at least, people with an Italian employment contract.

So what can you do if you’re not one of this select group?

Well, there are ways to make yourself a more attractive prospect.

1. Make sure you have sufficient funds upfront

Renting is an expensive business! Between the security deposit (up to 3 months’ rent) and the agency fee (up to 15% of the annual rent, + 22% VAT), you are likely to have to pay out several thousand euros before you even step foot in your new home, and that could easily rise to €10,000 or more for even a relatively modest home in central Rome. Make sure you can cover – or access – the upfront costs as well as the ongoing monthly rent.

2. Get a Bank Guarantee (Fideiussione Bancaria)

A bank guarantee, known as a fideiussione bancaria, is a promise from your bank to cover your rent if you fail to pay. This assurance significantly reduces the financial risk for the landlord and can make you a more appealing tenant.

  • How to Obtain a Bank Guarantee:
    • Approach your bank and request a fideiussione bancaria.
    • Provide the necessary documentation, such as proof of income and savings.
    • The bank will issue a guarantee letter to your prospective landlord.

If you don’t already have an Italian bank account, ask your own bank if they can provide a guarantee for your rental contract in Rome.

3. Gather References from Previous Landlords

Positive references can reassure landlords of your reliability and good behaviour as a tenant. Collect letters of recommendation from previous landlords who can vouch for your character and dependability.

  • What to Include in References:
    • Confirmation of timely payments and orderly vacation of the accommodation at the end of the rental period.
    • Your respectful treatment of the property.
    • General comments on your reliability and trustworthiness.

4. Demonstrate Financial Stability

Having substantial savings can show landlords that you are financially stable and capable of covering rent payments, even if your income fluctuates. Provide a recent bank statement to demonstrate your savings.

5. Provide Proof of Income

Solid proof of income can give landlords confidence in your ability to pay rent consistently. Provide evidence such as contracts or letters of commitment from clients, and bank statements showing payments received.

6. Offer to Pay a Higher Deposit

Offering a larger security deposit can mitigate the landlord’s risk and demonstrate your commitment to taking care of the property. (However, bear in mind that the maximum deposit permitted by Italian law is 3 months.) In any case, make sure that you are comfortable with the additional financial commitment.

7. Look out for Contratti Transitori (Temporary Contracts)

If you have a demonstrable reason for not needing long term accommodation (such as a temporary employment contract or 1-year course of study), a contratto transitorio might be your best option. These contracts are for a maximum of 18 months, although they can be renewed if both parties agree. Landlords offering accommodation with this type of contract may be more relaxed about their requirements for tenants.

8. Avoid mentioning any dependent children

You might think that being a young family with a cute kid would make you attractive tenants, but in reality, your child could make landlords think twice. Italian law makes it very difficult to evict minors, so they might worry that as a foreigner, you could move in, never pay rent, and then skip out of the country forever, and leave them out of pocket. Of course, you know you’d never do that – but they don’t. From their point of view, it’s far less risky to rent to someone with no children. Obviously, I’m not suggesting you lie! Just don’t rush to mention your children, at least in your initial dealings with landlords and agencies. The same goes for pets. Naturally, you should avoid offers which specifically state “no animali domestici,” but in any case, don’t fall over youself to talk about your four-legged friends.

9. Be Clear and Communicative

Good communication can set you apart from other applicants. Be clear about your rental needs, availability for moving in, and any specific requirements you have. Make sure you respond promptly to any queries, and, of course, always be courteous and professional in your interactions.

10. Be organized

Being organized in your application process helps you make a good impression. Have all your documents ready (and translated into Italian, where necessary) and present them in a professional manner.

  • Documents to Include:
    • Completed rental application form.
    • Identification documents (passport, visa/permesso di soggiorno).
    • Financial documents (bank statements, proof of income).
    • References from clients and previous landlords.

By following these strategies, you can present yourself as a reliable, financially stable, and respectful tenant. This proactive approach will increase your chances of securing a rental property, even in a competitive market like Rome.