The Cypriot parliament has begun reforming the legal framework for the licensing and supervision of professionals working in the construction sector.
MPs recently unanimously approved amendments to the current law.
They provide for the creation of a new register which must include all licensed designers, architects, engineers and specialists involved in the construction of buildings and roads. The updated legislation is the result of months of consultation between the relevant departments and stakeholders.
The changes require all professionals involved in the design and management of construction works to be entered in a special register in order to be authorised to practise their profession. This register will be supervised by the Scientific and Technical Chamber of Cyprus (ETEK). The entry into force of these provisions will take place by means of a decree of the Minister of the Interior, once the administrative preparations have been completed.
It should be noted that the drafting process of the law was accompanied by complex negotiations and numerous adjustments aimed at reaching a consensus among all parties involved.
In particular, these innovations were discussed in 17 consecutive sessions, starting from October 2023. Speaking in Parliament, MP Marinos Mousiuttas noted that although the opinions of the participants in the process differed widely, the constructive dialogue allowed for the formation of a balanced and acceptable text for all parties.
He also mentioned a key amendment supported by representatives of other political forces. It provides for a three-year transition period for architects, engineers and other professionals already working - this time will be given to fulfil the new obligations set out in the law.
It is worth noting that the main provisions of the new regulations include:
- Clearly defined registration procedures, eligibility criteria, procedures for renewing membership of the register and for granting special permits in special cases.
- Annual fees, disciplinary procedures and the structure and powers of the Registration Committee of Engineers and Inspectors.
- The time limit for processing applications for registration, which will be three months, replacing the previously proposed "within a reasonable time".
Interestingly, the training requirement will now also apply to electrical engineers. Practical training will be allowed not only in independent programmes but also when working for a contractor. Shareholders of construction companies will only be allowed to register if they do not hold the position of director and their share in the authorised capital does not exceed 33.3%. If the project is implemented by state structures and the designer and engineer are employed by these organisations, a separate permit is not required.