New Legislative Initiatives Target Jointly-Owned and Dangerous Buildings in Cyprus

The Cyprus House of Representatives is currently reviewing two closely linked legislative proposals designed to enhance the oversight of jointly-owned properties and address the pressing issue of dangerous buildings across the island.

Calls for Partner Collaboration Before Legislation Advances

The Standing Committee on Internal Affairs has expressed concerns over the drafting process, urging the government to seek input from key stakeholders before finalising the bills. Aristos Damianou, committee chairman, sharply criticised the Ministry of Interior for excluding District Local Government Organisations (DLGOs)—the entities charged with implementing these laws—from early consultations.

“Legislative dialogue precedes effective implementation, especially given these laws impact thousands of residents,” Damianou asserted, warning that insufficient coordination could delay enforcement. In response, a 15-day consultation window has been authorised, with detailed talks expected to resume by late October.

Key Provisions in the Jointly-Owned Buildings Bill

This new bill aims to better regulate apartment blocks and shared housing complexes—a living arrangement for nearly 200,000 Cypriot families, or about half the population. MP Marinos Mousiouttas from DIPA emphasised that inconsistent cooperation among owners often stalls maintenance and unfairly burdens some residents.

• Establishment of mandatory management committees
• Requirement of debt clearance certificates prior to property transactions
• Creation of sinking and emergency reserve funds
• Implementation of mediation services to resolve disputes

The legislation seeks to correct the imbalance caused by uncooperative owners, ensuring essential repairs and upkeep are not neglected.

Comprehensive Measures under the Dangerous Buildings Bill

The second bill focuses on mitigating risks posed by unsafe structures, a challenge that local authorities have struggled to manage effectively over the years. Key elements include:

• Authorised demolition of hazardous buildings
• Disconnection of utilities to prevent accidents
• Introduction of court orders issued through unilateral applications
• Facility for registration of charges to enable local or state authorities to recover costs incurred

Mousiouttas noted that the Ministry of Interior plans to support DLGOs financially, enabling prompt emergency repairs when property owners fail to act.

Ensuring Public Safety and Accountability

Highlighting the urgency, Mousiouttas recalled recent incidents of balcony collapses, fortunately without severe injuries. He stressed, “Decisive action is necessary now to protect citizens and avoid further accidents.” The parliamentary committee aims to approve both bills during the current session, signalling a focused effort on property legislation reform and public safety.

For those interested in residential property options affected by these changes, explore our listings of Cheap Apartments for Sale Cyprus or browse Houses for Sale in Cyprus to better understand the diverse real estate market conditions.