The Cyprus Property Developers Association has called for the introduction of periodic technical inspections for buildings, similar to vehicle MOT tests, and the immediate passage of legislation on dangerous and jointly owned buildings.
In a statement on Monday, the association said there was "no longer any room for further delays", with Director General Mersina Isidorou stating that "the safety of buildings and citizens cannot be left to chance".
Isidorou said that "during the new parliamentary session it is important for the legislation on dangerous buildings to be completed immediately and for the reform on jointly owned buildings to move forward", adding that "prevention, regular inspections and timely maintenance must form the core of a modern framework that will ensure the protection of human life, citizens' property and the country's building stock".
The association said the legislative process on dangerous buildings had already advanced and called for the review to be completed and the proposed amendments to the Streets and Buildings Regulation Law to be approved during the autumn session.
It also backed the introduction of periodic technical inspections, describing them as "a building MOT", to ensure that problems that could develop into risks for residents and the public are identified at an early stage.
The association cited several serious incidents in recent months, including the collapse of part of a building in Germasogeia in April that resulted in the deaths of two people, as well as the collapse of balconies at a seven-storey apartment block in Kapsalos in June.
On jointly owned buildings, the association noted that reform efforts have been pending since 2023 and called for renewed momentum to advance the legislation towards approval.
It also urged the introduction of a modern legal framework that would strengthen the operation and powers of management committees, ensure the establishment of reserve funds for maintenance works and provide effective mechanisms for timely intervention.
Source: CNA
