As significant changes approach for the IMU (Imposta Municipale Unica) concerning second homes in Italy, local municipalities will gain more flexibility in determining tax rates. These modifications, introduced by a decree from the Ministry of Economy and Finance dated November 6, will enable local governments to better accommodate
unique taxpayer situations across different regions.
Under the revised regulations, municipalities must submit a detailed report outlining the new IMU rates by 2026. This requirement empowers local governments to tailor tax rates to meet specific community needs, promoting greater equity and responsiveness within the taxation system.
Key changes to IMU for second homes
One significant update involves the ability for local administrations to differentiate tax
rates based on property usage. This means that IMU rates can vary significantly depending on whether a second home is rented or used by the owner. Previously, tax benefits were primarily limited to specific rental agreements, but the new rules will broaden the scope to include various usage scenarios.
Special considerations for vacation homes
Attention is being paid to homes used for vacation purposes. Municipalities now have the option to set
reduced tax rates for second homes occupied only for short durations throughout the year, such as coastal or mountain cabins. This initiative aims to alleviate the tax burden on families owning seasonal properties that often face high taxation costs.
In establishing these new rates, local governments can consider various factors, including the property’s usage duration, its land registry category, and the financial situation of the tenants. Additionally, allowances may be made for property owners with disabilities or those facing economic challenges, evaluated using the ISEE (Indicatore della Situazione Economica Equivalente).
Maintaining exemptions for primary residences
It is crucial to note that the upcoming changes to the IMU for second homes will not affect the exemptions currently in place for primary residences. The criteria for exemption remain unchanged; properties must still be utilized as the owner’s main residence. Luxury properties will continue to be exempt from IMU as well.
Recent rulings from the Constitutional Court have clarified that the exemption for primary residences can apply even if spouses reside in different homes, provided both comply with residency and domicile requirements.
Compliance deadlines for municipalities
To ensure effective implementation of these new tax advantages, municipalities must adhere to specific deadlines. By October 14, 2026, local administrations are expected to finalize and submit their differentiated tax rates. If municipalities fail to meet these deadlines, the previous year’s rates will automatically apply.
The evolving landscape of taxation for second homes offers local governments the chance to customize regulations to better serve their residents. These new measures represent a significant step forward in creating a fairer property tax environment.
Broader implications for property owners
The revisions to the IMU not only affect second homeowners but also have broader implications for all property owners across Italy. The new regulations simplify the process of determining tax rates, streamlining the criteria that municipalities can apply. This simplification, outlined in the Ministry’s latest decree, aims to eliminate confusion stemming from the extensive range of tax combinations that previously existed.
Under the revised regulations, municipalities must submit a detailed report outlining the new IMU rates by 2026. This requirement empowers local governments to tailor tax rates to meet specific community needs, promoting greater equity and responsiveness within the taxation system.0
Under the revised regulations, municipalities must submit a detailed report outlining the new IMU rates by 2026. This requirement empowers local governments to tailor tax rates to meet specific community needs, promoting greater equity and responsiveness within the taxation system.1