In a recent press release, the Pancyprian Association of Land Development Entrepreneurs and Constructors, along with the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK), reaffirmed their mutual commitment to modernize the construction industry's regulatory framework. The two organizations shared ideas and proposals aimed at streamlining the industry's regulations.

The leadership from both organizations convened recently for a collaborative dialogue. The discussion primarily revolved around the urgent need to streamline and expedite the property title issuance process.

Both parties agreed on keeping communication channels open to ensure synchronized efforts towards enhancing the real estate and construction industry's performance. They highlighted the delays in property title issuance as a critical area for improvement. They proposed technological upgrades and private consultant involvement as potential solutions to the current complexities.

The Association proposed a proactive approach to resolve the titling issue, suggesting that the process should commence before the final approval is granted. This initiative would include completing the building shell and deploying private consultants responsible for property title issuance.

The meeting attendees also engaged in a discussion on regulations pertaining to minimum area and unit ratios. The Association's delegation pinpointed that the current rules don't align with market needs, thereby inhibiting the development of affordable housing units.

Another topic of debate was the high requirements for parking spaces. The Association suggested that parking spaces should be independently titled to help mitigate this problem.

The meeting was graced by attendees from both organizations. ETEK was represented by its President, Konstantinos Konstantis, First Vice President, Andreas Theodotou, and Director, Christodoulos Hadjiodyssaios. The Pancyprian Association of Land Development Entrepreneurs and Constructors was represented by the member of the board and President of the Technical Committee of the Association, Antonis Kakoullis, and General Director, Mersina Isidorou. Other participants included the former Director of the Land Registry, Andreas Sokratous, and Professional Surveying Engineer and member of the Land Registration Council, Christos Hatzigiagou.

Meanwhile, as of August 1st, the Ministry of Interior announced a total of 105 applications for the "I BUILD" Grant Scheme, designed to aid the reconstruction of existing multistorey buildings in government housing estates for displaced persons. This update was communicated by the Ministry's Spokesperson, Margarita Kyriakou.

Alongside these applications, the Ministry has received 20 expressions of interest for the role of Coordinators within the "I BUILD" Scheme. These coordinators will play a crucial part in the scheme's first phase, which primarily deals with the reconstruction of 43 multistorey buildings. According to the Ministry, the costs of repairing or upgrading these buildings have surpassed their economical viability, necessitating their replacement and reconstruction.

The scheme's initial phase targets 43 multistorey buildings, the repair of which has been determined as financially unsustainable. From this batch, 20 buildings present an immediate danger and thus require urgent evacuation.

Discussing these 20 high-risk buildings, Ms. Kyriakou revealed that 82 applications had been submitted expressing interest in acquiring a new apartment once completed. However, two applicants have requested a monetary replacement instead of a new apartment.

In addition to this, Ms. Kyriakou shared that 55 beneficiaries have already begun to receive rental allowances, having vacated their apartments.

With respect to the 23 other buildings, not currently deemed high-risk, Ms. Kyriakou stated that 21 applications had been received from interested parties. Four of these applications are for a rental allowance, with these applicants having already relocated to alternative accommodation.

Tenants in these 23 buildings have been given the option to either remain in their current apartments and declare their interest in participating in the scheme, or vacate and receive a rental allowance.

The spokesperson highlighted the importance of drafting the program in accordance with the number of new multistorey buildings to be constructed. Therefore, a deadline in early October has been established for all tenants of the 43 buildings to submit their applications.

Ms. Kyriakou also provided an update on the construction projects set to transform the urban landscape in certain areas. The forthcoming multi-storey buildings, each consisting of 16 apartments, have generated substantial interest among the local population. In some regions, the application quota has already been met.

In the Strovolos district, from an initial 75 existing apartments marked for demolition, there have been 26 applications to reside in the proposed buildings. The progress made suggests that the construction of two new high-rise residential structures is due to commence shortly.

The situation is similar in the Latsia area, where a current settlement comprises 27 apartments. Out of these, 17 tenants have expressed a keen interest to transition to the new buildings, submitting their applications accordingly.

In a unique scenario, two adjacent apartment buildings currently stand in Latsia, encompassing a total of 18 living units. An impressive 16 out of these 18 have already expressed a desire to participate in the redevelopment project. The new residential buildings are planned to be erected on the existing site.

Lastly, Ms. Kyriakou discussed the status of the planned redevelopment in Limassol. With two apartment buildings set for demolition, a total of 12 applications have been received so far. She noted the existence of further applications from occupants of the remaining 23 apartment buildings in the area, which are not deemed to be in immediate danger. This additional interest means that yet another block of 16 apartments is close to reaching its occupancy quota.

Lastly, on Thursday, the government, represented by spokesperson Konstantinos Letympiotis, announced the Cabinet's approval of a bill targeting energy efficiency. The legislation introduces a regulatory framework for the management, oversight, and operation of shared residential buildings, according to a released statement.

Moreover, the Cabinet has also given a green light to a scheme that encourages residents to install or replace solar-powered water heating systems in their homes. The initiative covers water heating solutions, including solar panels and cylinders, further promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

Letympiotis affirmed that the meeting resulted in the approval of the bill, termed "On the Management of Communal Buildings and Related Issues Law of 2022". The newly approved bill will prove instrumental in resolving long-standing problems associated with management committees of shared buildings, the spokesperson said. Furthermore, it will rectify an array of practical issues these buildings currently face, thereby ensuring their effective operation.

Furthermore, he noted, "This law aims to eliminate the weaknesses and certain gaps identified during the implementation of the existing legislation. It encompasses defining the rights and obligations of the unit owners to regulate various issues." Letympiotis also underscored the need for improved management practices in these buildings. He drew attention to the fact that lax regulations often lead to owners neglecting their responsibilities, leaving properties inadequately maintained and posing safety risks.

More information concerning the details and provisions of the bill will be released in a forthcoming announcement from the Ministry of Interior, the statement concluded. 

Regarding the Solar Water Heating Systems Scheme, it introduces increased subsidies across specific categories and expands the total budget from 600,000 euros to a more robust sum of 2 million euros.

The updated scheme brings notable changes to the grant allotments as well. Under the new plan, each application or residential unit under the general category can qualify for a grant of 500 euros. In a move designed to aid the vulnerable segments of the society, residences housing electricity consumers who fall under the "vulnerable" category are eligible for a higher grant of 900 euros. The same higher grant also extends to residences located in mountainous regions.

Stringent guidelines have been put in place to ensure quality installations. According to the scheme's rules, the equipment slated for installation must be a part of the prescribed list of eligible devices. Furthermore, installations should only be performed by certified professionals who are registered as participants in the scheme.

Boasting a budget of 2 million euros, this initiative is set to accept proposals until December 20, 2023. However, the application window might close earlier if the scheme receives 3,000 applications before the aforementioned date.