Due diligence before buying in Sicily: a technical checklist – without delaying the schedule
Early decisions define schedule, quality and peace of mind during works. Clarify them before committing. In Sicily, coastal exposure and mixed building stock make early checks even more important.
Technical details that matter
Design for durability and maintenance: the best-looking solution is not useful if it does not last.
Focus on critical junctions (waterproofing, thermal bridges, services) because most post-handover issues start there.
- Questions to ask contractors
- Constraints to check early
- Documents you should have
Where to start
Collect the key documents (permits, drawings, cadastre) and check consistency between existing condition and authorised state.
Commission an accurate measured survey and clear drawings: without reliable measures, design is guesswork.
- How to document decisions
- Documents you should have
- How to keep changes under control
Schedule and cost control
Track decisions on site: inspections, progress records and structured change management.
Set up a bill of quantities and specifications that describe works, materials and tolerances in measurable terms.
- How to keep changes under control
- Questions to ask contractors
- Documents you should have
Permits and documentation
Check constraints and approvals (heritage, landscape, condominium) before appointing contractors.
Prepare a complete technical report to reduce requests for clarifications and delays.
- Questions to ask contractors
- Documents you should have
- How to document decisions
- You need a quick technical check before buying or signing.
- You must confirm the right permit path and missing documents.
- You want measurable specs to compare quotes properly.
- You started works and need to regain control of scope and changes.
- Mixing up cadastre updates and building permits (they are different).
- Ignoring waterproofing, slopes, ventilation and other “small” details.
- Applying standard solutions without reading the building context.
- No clear responsibilities between client, contractor and designers.
If you want a clear starting point for a project in Sicily,Studio 4ecan review your context and outline the right technical steps.
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