Cyprus tightens building regulations

Approaches to the design and control of mechanical and electrical installations (M&E) in buildings are changing dramatically in Cyprus. The main goals of the reform are to improve safety, quality of construction and energy efficiency.

Now the requirements for the design, installation and verification of systems are becoming much stricter, reflecting the growing demand for high standards in the real estate industry.

The Cyprus Chamber of Science and Technology (ETEK) welcomed the innovations with great enthusiasm, calling them a "long-awaited reform." According to the organization, the new rules finally meet the long-standing demands of professionals to strengthen control at all stages of the building's life cycle.

All applications for building permits submitted after March 11, 2026, must be accompanied by full-fledged designs of mechanical installations. It concerns:

• Heating and air conditioning systems.
• Hot water supply systems.
• Any other specialized technical systems.

Key change: previously, there were exceptions to the rules for private houses (cottages). Now the regulatory framework also applies to individual housing.

For the first time, the rules prescribe mandatory monitoring and verification of installations by a design engineer.

What does this mean for developers?

The owners of the facilities are required to appoint the author of the project (engineer) as the supervisor of the construction. This ensures that the actual execution of the work will fully comply with the approved documentation.

Upon completion of the work, the developer must receive an official opinion from mechanical and electrical engineers. It confirms that the installation was carried out strictly according to the project and in compliance with all the requirements of the building permit. Without this document, the acceptance of the object is impossible.

The reform also introduces a Register of Engineers for Training and Supervision at ETEK.

Source: Cyprus Property Buyers