Limassol EOA warns of legal action over unsafe properties as inspections intensify

The Limassol district EOA affirmed on Thursday that it will proceed with legal measures where building owners and management committees show indifference to safety obligations, following renewed inspections of structures across the district.

In a public appeal, the organisation said responsibility for the condition, maintenance and structural safety of buildings lies with owners and those managing jointly owned properties, stressing that this duty is not optional.

It said monitoring and timely intervention to address damage, or deterioration is “a serious responsibility of the persons who own, manage or are responsible for the operation of the building”.

The announcement comes in the aftermath of the building collapse incident in Yermasogeia which killed two people, prompting wider inspections.

The authority urged owners to ensure inspections are carried out by qualified professionals registered with the technical chamber (Etek), and to take immediate action where risks are identified.

It highlighted that older buildings as well as those showing visible signs of deterioration, including corrosion or structural deformation, require particular attention.

The organisation warned that where owners or management committees fail to act, it will intervene using all legal mechanisms available.

It said these may include evacuation orders, prohibition of use, sealing of buildings, court proceedings, administrative fines and criminal prosecutions where necessary.

It added that “in the event of indifference, omission or non-compliance”, it will act “where required and permitted by law” to protect public safety.

“Prevention, responsibility and timely intervention are crucial to preventing unpleasant and potentially tragic consequences,” the statement said.

The warning follows the classification of 36 buildings in Limassol as dangerous after inspections carried out by the authority earlier this week.

Officials said affected properties have been marked with warning notices in Greek and English, and some residents have been ordered to vacate buildings identified as high risk.

Limassol EOA president Yiannis Tsouloftas, said evacuation procedures are already under way in certain cases, including a residential complex in Yermasoyia where court action may be pursued if occupants fail to comply with removal deadlines.

The developments come as technical bodies and local authorities step up coordination on building safety.

Etek has expressed readiness to support inspections and structural assessments and has proposed the creation of a digital register of dangerous buildings to standardise reporting and improve oversight.

Authorities say inspections will continue across districts as part of a broader effort to identify structural risks and ensure compliance with safety obligations.