Sopralluoghi

Sopralluoghi are on-site visits conducted to inspect a location and gather information relevant to planning, evaluation, or verification of a project or decision. The term is commonly used in Italian professional contexts and derives from sopra (above) and luogo (place), conveying the idea of a physical observation of a site.

The visits are integral to a wide range of activities, including construction, architecture, engineering, urban planning, environmental assessment, real estate transactions, and public administration. They may be conducted before a project begins, during development, or to verify compliance with regulations and contractual requirements. In film and television production, a sopralluogo refers to scouting locations. In real estate, it supports due diligence and feasibility studies.

A typical sopralluogo involves planning and coordination with stakeholders, a careful on-site inspection of the terrain or building, and the collection of data such as measurements, topography, existing structures, utilities and access, safety hazards, and photographic documentation. Depending on the sector, it may also include basic tests, inventories, or sketches. The process emphasizes safety, permits, privacy considerations, and adherence to relevant regulations.

The output is usually a written report or checklist detailing observed conditions, constraints, risks, and recommendations. It may outline required permits, design implications, cost estimates, and actions needed to proceed. Sopralluoghi help reduce risk, inform design or negotiation, and serve as a reference throughout the project lifecycle.