Newsroom
Cracked balconies, aging apartment blocks, and neglected buildings are becoming a growing concern in Cyprus, and authorities in Larnaca are now sending a clear warning to property owners: keeping buildings safe is their responsibility, not the government’s.
In a statement issued this week, the Larnaca District Local Government Organization said owners of buildings, as well as management committees of apartment complexes, are fully responsible for the safety, maintenance, and structural condition of their properties.
The organization stressed that building maintenance is not just about avoiding costly repairs but about protecting human life and public safety.
Owners are being urged to carry out repairs immediately and address any damage or risks before accidents happen.
The announcement also makes clear that the district authority does not have the legal responsibility or the resources to continuously inspect private buildings across the city. Under current legislation, that duty remains entirely with property owners.
Authorities warned that failing to maintain unsafe buildings could lead to criminal or administrative penalties, including fines or even prison sentences under Cyprus’ Roads and Buildings Law.
The warning comes as concerns continue to grow across Cyprus over older residential buildings, many of which are showing signs of wear after decades without major maintenance. For many residents, especially in aging apartment blocks, the issue has become more than cosmetic; it is increasingly about safety.
