Illegal letting

[kirby]

Hi all, I've just found an article that says: Despite the fact that short-term letting is illegal in Cyprus, you will find many agents offering a letting service and even a buy-to-let service. (http://www.justlanded.com/english/Cypru ... ty/Letting)

This is the first I have ever heard about short-term letting being illegal. The developer, the agent (MRI overseas) and even my lawyer have not mentioned this.

My property is in a block of properties so I can not apply to the CTO as suggested in the article as it says that properties need to be detached.

Should I worry??

[Nigel Howarth]

Hi kirby,

Under Cyprus Tourist Laws, property lettings of less than 30 days are not permitted unless the owner of the property has a licence. But like many of the laws in Cyprus, the authorities appear either unwilling or unable to ensure that it’s enforced. You can read more about this in my magazine at http://www.news.cyprus-property-buyers. ... /id=002299

The situation is exacerbated by property developers and overseas property marketing companies who promote apartments and villas as suitable for ‘buy to let’ holiday homes, but fail to advise potential purchasers that renting to tourists is illegal unless they obtain a licence from the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO). Why don't they tell you? - because they want your money!

As the local authorities in Cyprus are also permitted to charge a small rent tax, anyone renting out their property is obliged to register details with their local council office.

Regards,

[kirby]

Thank you Nigel, I've just read your article - it's quite frightening!

Someone mentioned to me that sometimes the builder will apply for the CTO licence as a group thing (such as the blocks of apartments where I am buying) - is this likely at all do you know please?

Thank you for your kind help.

[Nigel Howarth]

Hi Kirby,

If the apartment block was specifically built for tourist/holiday lettings then the builder may have applied for the licences.

Such blocks have to be inspected by the Fire Department and various signage is needed before it will issue the necessary certificates. The Department works closely with the relevant departments of local government (mayors, districts) with various government agencies (Urban Planning, Public Works, Engineering Office, Welfare Office, Cyprus Tourism Organization, etc.). It also examines architectural drawings and give opinions for a building permit and inspect buildings for a Certificate of Final Approval and authorization.

Regards,

[kirby]

Thanks ever so much Nigel

[gillbail]

Can anybody give me advice on a tenant who has declared himself a sitting tenant and is refusing to pay any rent. I have not got any contract with him

[Nigel Howarth]

Hi gillbail

If he did not have a contract, how did he get into the property? Is he squatting?

Regards,

Nigel