Revolutionizing Building Regulations: A Look at the Casa Decree Proposed by Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini

A draft of the Casa Decree, created by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure Matteo Salvini, is set to be discussed in the Council of Ministers. The decree aims to resolve various discrepancies in building regulations and provide feedback on housing needs while supporting the recovery of existing buildings and reducing land consumption.

The decree includes provisions for changes in building violations, easier intended use, and a new type of free building intervention that includes outdoor awnings. One significant provision in the decree addresses structures created during the Covid emergency for “health, welfare, and educational” purposes, allowing them to remain in operation under certain conditions. The text also allows for changes in the intended use of individual real estate units without requiring additional works, as long as they comply with sector regulations and municipal planning instruments.

On the sanctioning side, municipalities may arrange for the alienation of properties with illegal works, making the sale conditional on the removal of the violations. The decree aims to simplify and address small irregularities within homes while preventing individuals responsible for abuses from participating in property disposal procedures.

While some government allies support the decree, others have presented alternative projects that allow for small amnesties. Opposition parties have criticized the provision as a disguised “amnesty.” Overall, however, the decree aims to streamline regulations, address housing needs, and support