Even locals get a headache when dealing with Italy’s property bureaucracy. Two offices you will hear about often are the Catasto and the Conservatoria.
They are essential for confirming ownership and ensuring that the house you want to buy is legally safe. Let’s go over their roles and how to approach them hassle free.
What Is the Catasto?
The Catasto is Italy’s land registry. It contains records of all properties, including:
• Property boundaries and maps (See: What is Visura Catastale?).
• Property classification (residential, agricultural, commercial).
• Size in square meters.
• Owners’ names.
💡 Key point: The Catasto is mainly for tax purposes, not for confirming true ownership. It shows who is registered for tax, but sometimes it can be outdated.
What Is the Conservatoria?
The Conservatoria dei Registri Immobiliari is the real authority for ownership and liens. It keeps records of:
• Sales deeds and transfers of ownership.
• Mortgages and loans registered on a property.
• Court orders or restrictions.
💡 Key point: If you want to confirm that the seller is the legal owner and that no debts are attached, you must check the Conservatoria.
Why Buyers Must Check Both
When purchasing property in Italy, your notary will usually request extracts from both offices:
1. Catasto → to verify the property’s physical details (maps, size, classification).
2. Conservatoria → to verify legal ownership and financial burdens (mortgages, liens, disputes).
Checking both ensures the property is correctly described and free of surprises.
How to Access the Records
• In person: Both offices are present in every provincial capital.
• Online: Some documents can be accessed through the Agenzia delle Entrate portal (see What is Agenzia delle Entrate?).
• Via a professional: Usually, your notary, lawyer, or geometra will request these for you.
Hassle-Free Tips
• Always rely on an independent notary instead of one chosen by the seller.
• If something looks odd in the Catasto (e.g., wrong size or classification), request an update before signing.
Final Thoughts
• Double-check the Conservatoria to ensure no hidden mortgages or legal disputes exist.
The Catasto and Conservatoria may sound like bureaucratic monsters, but they are vital safeguards for property buyers. Together, they confirm that your dream home in Le Marche is both real and legally secure.
🌍 Useful Links:
Foreign Buyer Practicalities: Residency, Visas, Inheritance
Agenzia delle Entrate – Catasto Services