Construction lawyers in Cyprus

Kleanthous & Platis advises on construction and building projects across Cyprus. We act for developers, main contractors, subcontractors, consultants and investors, including clients based outside Cyprus.

Construction disputes usually turn on the contract and the paper trail. A project may involve unpaid certificates, delay, variations, defects or incomplete works. We review the relevant contracts and records, identify the immediate risks and set out the practical options.

Permits, procurement and project set-up

We assist at every stage before and during a project, from securing the right approvals to structuring the contract chain. The work may include:

  • planning permit, building permit and title compliance checks;

  • review of the head contract, subcontracts and consultant appointments;

  • procurement strategy, tendering and contractor selection;

  • performance bonds, guarantees and insurance requirements;

  • collateral warranties and step-in rights for funders and purchasers; and

  • coordination with architects, engineers and quantity surveyors.

Getting the contractual structure right at the outset reduces the risk of disputes later. Where specialist technical or costing input is needed, we coordinate with the appropriate professional.

Construction contracts and projects

A construction contract should reflect how the project will actually be administered. We advise on the scope of work, price, programme, certification, variations, extensions of time, retention, insurance, bonds, defects obligations and termination rights.

Our work includes reviewing or preparing building contracts, subcontracts, letters of award, guarantees, settlement agreements and project correspondence. We also advise during the project when a payment, variation or delay issue needs to be addressed before it becomes a larger dispute.

Construction disputes

Disputes concerning defects, incomplete work, delay or payment depend heavily on the documents and on notices given at the time. We assist with:

  • unpaid work, disputed certificates and deductions;

  • variation and additional work claims;

  • defects, remedial costs and incomplete works;

  • delay, extensions of time and disruption;

  • final accounts, retention and guarantees; and

  • collateral warranty, defects liability and third-party claims.

Depending on the matter, the appropriate step may be a focused legal opinion, a formal letter, negotiation, interim court relief, proceedings or advice connected with arbitration. We consider proportionality, evidence, cost and the commercial objective before recommending action.

How we assess a matter

We begin with the contract, title records, correspondence and any urgent deadline. The useful material often includes drawings, certificates, payment applications, site instructions, photographs, expert reports and a clear chronology.

After conflict and regulatory checks, we confirm the proposed scope of work and fee basis in writing. New enquiries should identify the parties, the project, the present stage of the matter and any court, contractual or completion deadline.

Discuss your construction matter

Contact our office for advice on a Cyprus construction contract, project or dispute. Remote consultations can be arranged for clients outside Cyprus.