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We wonder from time to time whether we are the only ones who voice our concerns on the problems of the Building Industry especially regarding the pressing items that need immediate correction.
Regrettably the organised professional groups such as the Cyprus Technical Chamber (ETEK), the Architects Association and others or even the organised developers, do not seem to bother.
During 38 years of being involved in public problems through our writings, seminars, personal contacts with Ministers and other levels has not provided the results that we were expecting.
· Building Permits – We have published a detailed step-by-step suggestion to create a new system of permit issues to involve civil servants as little as possible and the burden of the permits to be the prime responsibility by the architects of a project.
· We raised the issue that the dreaded certificate of final approval that should be replaced by a certificate of safety, so that the buildings can be occupied pending the certificate of final approval (which can take years to be issued from the buildings completion).
· We have raised the issue of private swimming pools four years ago and provided the gap that exists between EU regulations and our own. Now a big problem.
· We have suggested a certain solution to those buyers regarding the damage caused by subsidence of buildings.
· Back in the year 2004 we raised the issue of units to let (Airbnb etc) which only now has surfaced for public debate.
· The towers that are appearing everywhere and although we are all for it (subject to certain conditions) we raised our concerns two years ago and now the problems that arise out of these new developments has woken up the Government and the Town Planning Office.
· Various illegalities that the local authorities and even local planning authorities tolerate is a provocation. We have recently reported various Departments on this and the matter is under investigation by the Auditor General and others.
· We have made a proposal regarding upgrading of the environment with respect to land that is being developed.
· We have suggested a procedure to check the quality of entertainment and tourist establishments (three years ago) regarding the service offered and the charges. Now the C.T.O. is looking at it (see Greece where authorised inspectors/ “spies” are employed).
· We were the first to raise the question of commission and especially regarding in particular the Chinese agents, local developers as well as certain advocates and accountants.
· We raised the question of VAT imposed on short lets – now at last we have a reply by the VAT authorities.
· Our stand on the common expenses law (we named it a curse) which is not working is still pending, be it that we will not let go (in addition to the other suggestions).
· We have a stand regarding Natura zoning and development and with special regard to Akamas and other areas (10 years ago and practically annually ever since).
· We fired a warning shot on the passports/visa issues three years ago, placing our own ideas on the subject. The situation is now getting very serious since we are not listening to the warnings of the EU, U.S.A. etc.
· Our articles and suggestions on hotel upgrading since 2012 seems to have been adopted recently with good results.
So, one wonders, are we alone in these thoughts of correctness, or shall we give up and follow the general attitude of indifference?
