Extraordinary maintenance: what it is, list of works and management of interventions and construction works

Why it is essential to distinguish extraordinary maintenance

Extraordinary maintenance represents a crucial aspect in the management of buildings, systems and real estate assets. Understanding the difference between ordinary maintenance, extraordinary maintenance and renovation is essential to avoid regulatory errors, correctly plan interventions and optimize costs. Proper classification of interventions allows access to tax incentives and compliance with administrative procedures required by law.

Legal definition of extraordinary maintenance

According to Article 3, letter b) of D.P.R. 380/2001, extraordinary maintenance includes works and modifications necessary to renew or replace even structural parts of buildings, as well as to integrate sanitary and technological systems, provided they do not alter the overall volume or intended use. The Simplification Law 120/2020 expanded the definition, including the subdivision and merging of real estate units, still without changes in volume or use.

List of extraordinary maintenance works

Extraordinary maintenance interventions are numerous and vary according to the needs of the property. Below is an overview of the main permitted works:

• Subdivision or merging of real estate units without increasing volume
• Relocation or construction of internal partitions
• Renovation and upgrading of technological systems (electrical, plumbing, heating)
• Reinforcement or replacement of structural elements (floors, stairs, columns)
• Installation or replacement of elevators and freight lifts
• Roof refurbishment with possible insulation
• Installation of thermal insulation systems and energy efficiency interventions
• Replacement of external fixtures and windows
• Works on courtyards, gardens and outdoor areas (gates, fences, paving)
• Installation of solar or photovoltaic panels

Remember: each intervention must comply with regulatory limits, without modifying the building’s volume or intended use.

Authorizations and administrative management

Specific authorizations are required for extraordinary maintenance:

• CILA (Certified Notice of Commencement of Works): for interventions that do not involve structural elements
• SCIA (Certified Notice of Commencement of Activity): for works involving structural elements

Applications are submitted through the municipal One-Stop Building Desk, with the support of a licensed professional who certifies compliance of the interventions. Proper document management is essential to avoid penalties and ensure traceability of the works.

Differences from ordinary maintenance and building renovation

It is important to distinguish extraordinary maintenance from other categories of intervention:

• Ordinary maintenance: includes repair, renewal and replacement of finishes, without significant structural or system changes (e.g. painting, floor replacement).
• Building renovation: concerns more invasive interventions, such as demolitions, reconstructions, changes of use or volume increases, requiring more complex permits.

Correct classification of interventions avoids procedural errors and administrative sanctions.

Tax aspects and deductions

Extraordinary maintenance interventions may benefit from tax incentives such as the renovation bonus and reduced 10% VAT for works carried out by companies. Some materials purchased directly by the client may be subject to standard 22% VAT. It is essential to keep all documentation to access deductions.

Intervention management: critical issues and best practices

Extraordinary maintenance management presents several critical issues:

• Coordination among involved stakeholders (owners, professionals, contractors, administrators)
• Collection and updating of data related to interventions
• Monitoring work progress and compliance with timelines
• Management of technical and administrative documentation

For effective management, it is recommended to:

1. Centralize information in a single accessible system
2. Define clear roles and responsibilities for each phase of the intervention
3. Use digital tools for traceability and data sharing
4. Periodically verify progress status and update documentation

Digitalization and management software: the role of UTwin

The adoption of digital solutions such as Digital Twin and CMMS makes it possible to simplify the management of extraordinary maintenance interventions. These tools allow you to:

• Centralize all information related to buildings and interventions
• Track every phase of the works and monitor deadlines
• Facilitate collaboration between technical, administrative teams and contractors
• Reduce errors and management time thanks to quick access to data

UTwin integrates Digital Twin and CMMS functionalities, offering a single platform for digital building management. With UTwin, it is possible to archive documents, plan interventions, monitor work progress and ensure full traceability of every operation, improving efficiency and transparency.

Practical tips for effective management

To best manage extraordinary maintenance, it is essential to:

• Always verify local regulations and municipal procedures
• Rely on licensed professionals for proper classification and permit management
• Use digital tools to centralize data and documentation
• Carefully plan every phase of the intervention, monitoring costs and timelines

A structured and digital management of interventions ensures safety, cost savings and regulatory compliance.