Residents of two apartment buildings in Mestre, Venice, were spared significant out-of-pocket expenses after the discovery of approximately 86,000 euros missing from condominium funds. The shortfall, initially attributed to unpaid fees by tenants, was revealed following an audit conducted by Studio Tasinato di Mira after they took over management of the “Mattuglie” complex on Via Don Ettore Fuin.
The buildings, constructed as part of an early “social housing” initiative, offer apartments at reduced rates to families whose incomes exceed eligibility for traditional public housing but are insufficient to compete in the private market. In 2022, the previous administrator publicly accused many residents of failing to pay for heating, water, and condominium fees, creating a reported deficit of around 100,000 euros. However, the recent audit suggests the missing funds were not solely due to non-payment by residents.
An assembly of condominium owners was held Thursday in the nearby Santa Barbara parish hall to address the situation. The initial plan to recoup the 86,000 euros involved levying charges ranging from 945 to nearly 1,900 euros on individual apartment owners. However, Insula, the municipal company that now manages the properties following the dissolution of Ive-Immobiliare veneziana, has agreed to cover the outstanding amount, averting the require for residents to pay.
A criminal investigation has been launched against the former administrator, led by attorney Francesco Maria Tedeschi, who specializes in condominium and labor law. The former administrator, who is closing his business, acknowledged internal problems within his firm and stated that Insula was ultimately responsible for covering the financial gap. He also claimed that the amount he is accused of misappropriating is less than the outstanding payments owed to him by Insula for managing other municipal condominiums.
Insula has declined to provide detailed comments on the matter, citing legal sensitivities. The situation also raises questions about the management of public funds and the oversight of social housing initiatives in the Venice area. Fresh lease agreements are being drafted, potentially shifting some apartments from “social housing” to standard “Erp” (public housing) status, and eviction proceedings are reportedly being prepared for residents who are behind on rent or condominium fees.