Cyprus is at a pivotal moment in addressing how jointly-owned buildings are managed, as the government introduces a new bill aiming for stricter oversight and improved safety. However, this proposed legislation has sparked significant debate, especially among the island’s five District Local Government Organisations (DLGOs), which have voiced strong opposition to the expanded responsibilities being placed upon them.
The heart of the dispute lies in the bill’s requirement for DLGOs to take over registration and supervision of management committees of roughly 30,000 jointly-owned buildings in Cyprus. This role also includes dispute resolution, maintaining a national register, and imposing fines. DLGOs argue that these new duties go far beyond their current capacity.
According to a memorandum submitted to the Standing Committee on Internal Affairs, local authorities feel overlooked and ill-prepared for such a sizeable administrative burden. They stress the complexity of registering and monitoring these committees, emphasizing the need for adequate resources, proper infrastructure, and specialist software before assuming these tasks.
Earlier objections were voiced publicly by the committee chair, who criticised the Interior Ministry for neglecting to consult DLGOs during the bill’s drafting process. The organisations have highlighted their ongoing struggles managing dangerous buildings as assigned in April 2025, noting insufficient financial backing and unclear procedural guidelines.
The DLGOs urge the government to enhance existing services such as licensing and to allocate sufficient budgets and staffing before handing over further responsibilities, underscoring that current proposed administrative fees won’t cover operational costs.
The bill mandates comprehensive inspections by accredited professionals from the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) focusing on structural, mechanical, and electrical integrity. This move targets critical safety issues like falling balconies and crumbling walls, which have plagued many shared buildings.
Additionally, management committees would be required to establish reserve funds for repairs, while property owners are expected to contribute to communal expenses—covering heating, cleaning, maintenance of lifts, electricity, and water.
Other responsibilities include obtaining building insurance, maintaining public areas, initiating insulation improvements, and environmental upgrades. A particularly stringent clause prevents property sales if communal dues remain unpaid, aiming to force compliance.
Despite its comprehensive scope, the draft legislation notably lacks effective mechanisms to ensure timely payment of communal fees. Reliable and immediate access to funds is crucial for management committees to fulfill their obligations, including insuring and repairing the buildings. Without enforced collection rules, these committees risk operational paralysis, undermining the bill’s core intent.
As debates continue, it is clear that any solution must balance robust regulation with practical support for those tasked with implementation. For investors and homeowners browsing property options—be they cheap apartments for sale in Cyprus or more exclusive listings—the legal and administrative future of jointly-owned buildings will directly impact maintenance, safety, and property value.
Stay informed with INDEX.cy as we track this evolving story and its implications for Cyprus’ real estate landscape.
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