Property and construction lawyers in Cyprus

Kleanthous & Platis advises on Cyprus property transactions, construction projects and related disputes. We act for buyers, sellers, property owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors and investors, including clients based outside Cyprus.

Property and construction issues often overlap. A purchase may raise title or permit concerns, while a building 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.

Property transactions

We handle residential, commercial, land and development transactions from due diligence to completion. The work may include:

• title deed and Land Registry searches;

• checks for mortgages, charges and other registered burdens;

• review of available planning and building permits;

• reservation agreements and contracts of sale;

• deposit of the contract and transfer of title; and

• powers of attorney and remote completion arrangements.

Legal due diligence does not replace a physical or structural survey. Where technical, tax or valuation advice is needed, we explain this early and 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.

Property and 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

• land, title, co-ownership and contractual disputes.

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. For construction disputes, the useful material often includes drawings, certificates, payment applications, site instructions, photographs, expert reports and a clear chronology. For a transaction, it normally includes the title documents, permits, plans and draft agreement.

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

Discuss your property or construction matter

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