District Local Government Organisations (DLGOs) in Cyprus have criticised how issues around buildings are being handled, especially when it comes to jointly-owned buildings such as apartment blocks and complexes.
In a joint statement, they said the approach taken by the authorities is inconsistent. This follows recent remarks by the Interior Minister, although the DLGOs note they had already submitted detailed concerns and suggestions to the Ministry on 11 March. They believe the matter needs a clear and balanced approach, but current policy does not reflect that.
Concerns over a “two-tier” approach
The DLGOs point out a difference in how dangerous buildings and jointly-owned buildings are treated. For dangerous buildings, authorities stress the need to enforce existing laws while reforms are being developed. However, for jointly-owned buildings, where legal changes are also being prepared, there seems to be less focus on applying current laws. This gives the impression of a “two-tier” system.
They stress that the law already clearly sets out responsibilities. The Director of the Department of Lands and Surveys is responsible for enforcing rules related to jointly-owned buildings. These include setting up management committees, following operating regulations, and stepping in when rules are not followed.
However, the DLGOs question why this department is still understaffed, saying this limits proper enforcement. They argue that with enough staff and resources, the department could carry out more inspections, ensure management committees are in place, keep accurate records, and improve oversight. In the long run, this could help prevent buildings from becoming dangerous through better maintenance.
While the DLGOs say they are willing to take on more responsibilities under planned reforms, they warn that poor preparation could lead to operational problems.
They are calling for proposed fees to better reflect real costs, approval of proper organisational structures, effective systems for enforcement and revenue collection, and full government funding to set up initial registries. They also highlight the need for modern digital systems, real-time data sharing, and a fully tested IT platform linked to “Ippodamos”.
Finally, the DLGOs support having a single, unified law covering both dangerous and jointly-owned buildings. They say this would bring Cyprus in line with modern European standards and improve how the sector is managed.
Jointly-owned building numbers
According to the Department of Lands and Surveys, Cyprus has a total of 20,919 jointly-owned buildings comprising 219,635 residential units.
Of these, 14,208 buildings are registered, accounting for 159,659 units (mainly apartments), while a further 6,711 buildings remain unregistered, involving 59,976 units.
Nicosia has the highest number of jointly-owned developments, with 4,927 registered buildings with 53,553 residential units. It also leads in unregistered stock, with 2,297 buildings and 19,688 units.
Larnaca has the smallest share, with 898 registered buildings (9,895 units) and 758 unregistered developments (6,865 units). Overall, Nicosia alone accounts for 7,224 jointly-owned buildings and 73,241 residential units, compared with Famagusta’s 1,832 buildings and 19,266 units.
Dangerous building numbers
According to the latest available figures:
- Nicosia – 1,466.
- Limassol – 36, approximately 15 – 20 of which have been declared “high risk”.
- Larnaca – more than 500.
- Paphos – 266.
- Famagusta – 26.
Most recently, it’s been reported that ‘hundreds’ of buildings in Lefkara are in a dilapidated state, some of which are listed buildings.
There are more buildings that were abandoned by their Turkish Cypriot owners who fled to the occupied areas of the island following the 1974 Turkish invasion. Many of these will have fallen into disrepair, some of which may be in a dangerous condition.
