What "Unfurnished" Actually Means in Milan

What "Unfurnished" Actually Means in Milan

Why it matters: In the US, an "unfurnished" apartment usually includes a kitchen and appliances. In Milan, non arredato (empty) often means literally empty: no fridge, no oven, and sometimes not even light fixtures or kitchen cabinets.

What to do now:

  • Check the Listing: Look for arredato (fully furnished) or parzialmente arredato (usually includes the kitchen).
  • The "4+4" Contract: This is the standard long-term lease. You are committed for 4 years, but you can usually leave with 3–6 months' notice (disdetta).
  • The Codice Fiscale: You cannot sign a lease without this. Get it at the Agenzia delle Entrate as soon as you land; it’s your Italian Social Security Number equivalent.

Milan is competitive. If you find a place you like, have your documents (Passport, Visa, Proof of Income) ready in a PDF on your phone to send to the agent during the viewing. If you wait until the next morning, it’s gone.

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