Roof collapse at abandoned residence in Larnaca prompts safety checks and planned demolitions

Larnaca, Cyprus. Rescue workers on Thursday afternoon searched debris after the roof of an abandoned residence on Stavrodromiou street collapsed. Authorities cordoned off the area and carried out safety checks.

Safety measures and search

Authorities took additional precautionary steps as an adjoining, unoccupied house was also said to be at risk of structural collapse. Sniffer dogs were brought in to check for anyone trapped in the collapsed building, which was occasionally used by homeless people, and found no one inside.

Controlled demolition and official comments

Authorities carried out a controlled demolition of part of the structure. Angelos Hadjicharalambous, head of the Larnaca district local government organisation (EOA), told media the collapsed building had not been listed as dangerous, while their files indicated the next-door residence was at risk.

Planned demolition and wider context

Hadjicharalambous said both buildings would be demolished over the coming days and noted that it is the responsibility of owners to take action where a building is dangerous. The incident is the latest collapse amid ongoing discussion about the state of dangerous buildings in Larnaca.

What steps do you think should be taken to address dangerous buildings in your area?