Do you have references from previous jobs?
re-fe-REN-tse — four syllables; stress the third; 'z' makes a 'ts' sound.
Use this when hiring a tradesperson you do not know personally. References (referenze) are a reasonable professional request and any reputable tradesperson will be happy to provide them.
Referenze (references) allow you to verify the quality and reliability of a tradesperson before hiring. Professional contractors typically have photos of previous work (portfolio) and can provide contact details of previous clients. Checking Google reviews, Habitissimo (Italy's leading tradespeople platform), or asking through neighbourhood groups is also effective.
Posso vedere delle foto dei lavori precedenti?
Can I see photos of previous work?
Most professional tradespeople now have smartphone portfolios of recent completed jobs.
Ha clienti soddisfatti che posso contattare?
Do you have satisfied clients I can contact?
Verifying references by actually calling previous clients is the most reliable check.
È iscritto alla Camera di Commercio?
Are you registered with the Chamber of Commerce?
Business registration (CCIAA) confirms the tradesperson is legally operating; check at www.registroimprese.it.
Italy's Habitissimo platform (habitissimo.it) has revolutionised the Italian tradespeople market by aggregating verified reviews and quotes from hundreds of thousands of jobs. It is Italy's equivalent of Check a Trade or HomeAdvisor. Tradespeople on Habitissimo with verified reviews command premium prices but significantly higher client trust — a sign that Italy's informal tradespeople market is professionalising.