After the Balcony Collapse in Limassol, Cyprus Urges the Adoption of a Building Inspection Law

The Cyprus Association of Civil Engineers (Spolmik) has called on authorities to develop a law for regular building inspections following the collapse of two balconies in a residential building in Limassol.

Civil engineers stated that many old buildings in Cyprus are not properly maintained. Additionally, unregulated extensions regularly added to buildings without proper study, licensing, and supervision lead to structural collapses.

"In light of this, it is crucial to enact a law for regular building inspections," the association believes.

Furthermore, the union urged relevant authorities to take action on this matter, considering that they bear "legal responsibility for licensing construction as well as implementing measures and assisting in actions to eliminate dangerous construction practices."

They also stated that private individuals undertaking construction and renovation projects on their property "should consult with a civil engineer."

Additionally, engineers called on people to entrust work to qualified professional contractors and craftsmen with the necessary training and skills.

As a reminder, the balconies of a multi-story residential building on Naftpliu Street in Limassol collapsed early yesterday morning. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

According to local media reports, the Limassol Municipality previously stated that there are serious issues related to the responsibility of individuals involved in the maintenance and repair of the building where the collapse occurred.

It is also noted that repair works were conducted on the building in 2019; however, it is presumed that the technical maintenance was ineffective.