Larnaca begins inspections of high-risk buildings: 563 cases in queue

In Cyprus, the Larnaca District Local Government Organization (DLGO) has announced the start of on-site inspections for approximately 15–20 buildings previously categorized as high-risk in the city of Larnaca. This marks the beginning of efforts to address a backlog of more than 563 allegedly dangerous structures inherited from previous competent authorities. The work has been launched as part of efforts to eliminate threats to public safety.

A team of six people—including engineers, technicians, and officials from the DLGO and the Municipality of Larnaca—has been formed to conduct the surveys. According to the DLGO, the goal of the inspections is to take immediate action to eliminate hazards.

The DLGO also reported the preparation of an organizational chart to establish a specialized Dangerous Buildings Unit within the enforcement sector. The unit is planned to be staffed by eight employees, who will be recruited either through permanent positions or via fixed-term contracts with qualified private sector specialists within the approved budget.

In parallel, a legislative analysis is being conducted with legal consultants, and the recruitment of an Administrative Officer with legal experience is underway to strengthen legal support.

Furthermore, the DLGO has published an invitation for contractors to participate in the recording, assessment, and classification of buildings on the list. It also intends to inspect an additional 114 buildings referred for checks since the organization began its operations. The DLGO clarified that in some cases, these objects might already be included in the inherited database of cases.