Following the tragic collapse of a residential building in Limassol, which claimed the lives of two people, Cypriot authorities urgently carried out inspections of dilapidated structures. The most alarming situation was identified in the Paphos area. According to an official report by the Paphos District Local Government Organization (EOA), specialists recorded 226 buildings in a worn-out or dangerous condition. Not only the center of the tourist city is affected, but also surrounding municipalities.
Critical condition of residential complexes
Particular concern was raised by apartment buildings. A total of 70 multi-storey buildings were classified as “dangerous to life.” The head of the EOA, Charalambos Pittokopitis, clarified that 10–11 of them are in a critical stage of deterioration. Orders have already been issued to the owners of the three most hazardous buildings. Two owners have promptly started repair work, while in the third case a legal review of the documents is currently underway — the EOA licensing department is carefully examining the paperwork before making a final decision.
Red stickers on walls: living and business prohibited
Owners and residents of unsafe buildings have been notified not only through official letters. Special warning stickers have appeared on the facades of problematic buildings. This is an official sign from the EOA that strictly prohibits both residence and commercial activity in the premises. The Civil Defence of Cyprus has been placed on high alert: authorities are ready to evacuate residents at any moment if repairs do not begin soon. Although Pittokopitis did not specify exact deadlines for evacuation, he emphasized that the main goal is to ensure owners bring buildings into safe condition while avoiding mass evictions.
Legal consequences for owners and tenants
For owners of unsafe housing in Cyprus, there are only two legal scenarios. The first and preferred option is to urgently comply with EOA orders and carry out repairs. The second is forced evacuation of residents, which entails serious legal risks and fines for the owner.
As for tenants who notice such a sticker on their building, under the laws of the Republic of Cyprus they must immediately contact the building manager or owner. If the owner does not respond and fails to provide documents confirming the start of repairs, residents have the right to to contact to EOA Paphos for the protection of their rights, as living in such a building poses a serious risk to life. The situation remains under the control of the authorities, and the list of unsafe buildings will continue to expand as inspections proceed.