Yermasoyia, Cyprus. A fatal collapse in a block of flats in Yermasoyia this month has renewed scrutiny of ageing apartment buildings in Cyprus, amid warnings from local authorities that structural problems have persisted for years. Officials have said some buildings had already been deemed unsafe, with notices issued, while residents continued living in affected properties.
Yermasoyia incidents and prior warnings
Part of a block of flats in Yermasoyia collapsed suddenly this month, killing two people and injuring others. It later emerged the building had been deemed unsuitable for habitation, with letters sent and warnings issued, but people were still living there.
In January 2025, a balcony in Yermasoyia collapsed onto the one below.
Limassol notices and escalating concerns
Local authorities have said ageing apartment blocks have been “plaguing us for years.” In January 2024, reports said around 400 buildings in Limassol had received warning letters requiring repairs, while 130 had been declared dangerous, following a balcony collapse that damaged vehicles below.
By December 2024, officials warned the situation was worsening, with the municipality saying “the problems are escalating” and that most property owners had not responded to repair notices.
Wider housing deterioration in Cyprus
Cyprus has been described as having some of the highest rates in the European Union for damp, rot and structural deterioration in homes. The problem has been presented as extending beyond individual buildings or towns, with wear attributed to long-term exposure to sun, salt, wind and rain, as well as winter water infiltration.
What steps do you think should be taken to ensure residents are not living in buildings deemed unsafe?
