Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) has warned that owners of property in Cyprus bear sole responsibility for dangerous and unsafe buildings, underlining that public safety “cannot be compromised”.
In a statement, the authority urged all property owners, along with management committees of jointly-owned buildings where relevant, to safeguard the safety, upkeep and structural integrity of their properties.
Owners called on to act without delay
According to the organisation, regular inspections and maintenance are not merely precautionary steps, but legal duties closely tied to protecting human life and ensuring public safety.
Owners were urged to move swiftly with any necessary repair works, restoration projects and the elimination of hazards that could endanger residents or passers-by.
The authority also reiterated that responsibility for monitoring the condition of buildings rests “fully and exclusively” with owners themselves.
DLGO clarifies inspection responsibilities
The DLGO stated that current legislation does not grant it either the responsibility or the authority to carry out ongoing inspections or certify the condition of every privately owned property.
It added that the obligation to oversee and ensure building safety remains entirely with owners.
The authority further warned that breaches of the relevant provisions under Cyprus’ Roads and Buildings Law may amount to criminal offences, carrying both administrative and criminal penalties, including fines and possible prison sentences.
The warning echoes a similar announcement issued yesterday by the Limassol DLGO, which also called on owners and management committees of jointly-owned buildings to arrange inspections by suitably qualified professionals listed in the relevant ETEK Register of Members and, where necessary, by firms registered in the ETEK Register of Consultancy Firms.
The Limassol authority added that particular care should be taken with ageing buildings or properties displaying visible signs of deterioration, including cracks, falling plaster or concrete, exposed reinforcement (see photo), damp, corrosion, deformation, subsidence or other indicators of structural weakness.
Rising concerns over ageing buildings in Cyprus
The latest statements reflect growing concern in Cyprus surrounding ageing properties and the dangers linked to inadequate maintenance, especially in older residential and mixed-use developments.
Authorities continue to stress that routine inspections and proper structural maintenance are vital in reducing safety risks and avoiding injuries, potential fatalities and legal repercussions.
