**Bill Proposed to Cut Utilities for Owners of Dangerous Buildings in Cyprus**
A new legislative proposal aimed at addressing the issue of dangerous buildings in Cyprus has been introduced by the Parliament’s Interior Committee. The bill, currently under discussion, seeks to implement measures that would allow authorities to cut off electricity and water supplies to properties deemed hazardous. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to compel property owners to undertake necessary repairs and ensure public safety.
Elikkos Elia, the director-general of the Interior Ministry, emphasized that the bill maintains the existing responsibility of property owners to rectify dangerous conditions. However, it introduces stricter legislative measures to enforce compliance. The proposed legislation includes provisions for full or partial demolition of unsafe structures, registering liens on properties, and recovering costs associated with safety interventions. Additionally, it aims to impose tougher penalties on non-compliant property owners.
The Interior Ministry plans to review the bill from a legal standpoint to ensure its compatibility with the Constitution. Following this review, further discussions will take place with relevant stakeholders to refine the legislation.
Local government organizations, specifically District Local Government Organisations (DLGOs), are expected to play a crucial role in the implementation of this bill. Elia noted that DLGOs should only intervene in cases where public safety is significantly at risk, rather than in every instance of a dangerous building. This approach is intended to limit the number of cases requiring governmental intervention.
In support of this initiative, the Interior Ministry has approved a fund of two million euros dedicated to assisting DLGOs with their efforts to address dangerous buildings. The president of Nicosia’s DLGO, representing other DLGOs, has called for the government to establish a similar fund of two million euros annually over the next decade, which would enable local organizations to effectively manage and operate their safety programs.
Concerns regarding funding have also been raised by local authorities. The president of Larnaca’s DLGO highlighted that approximately seven million euros would be necessary to address the 351 buildings identified as potentially dangerous in the area. A total of 1,087 buildings have been identified in Larnaca alone. Meanwhile, a representative from Limassol’s DLGO reported that 150,000 euros had already been spent since 2025 on safety measures for two dangerous buildings, with funds still pending from the Interior Ministry.
The bill represents a significant step towards enhancing public safety and ensuring that property owners take responsibility for the condition of their buildings. As discussions continue, stakeholders are hopeful that the proposed measures will lead to tangible improvements in the management of dangerous structures across Cyprus.