The Immovable Property Commission (IPC) was established to address property claims resulting from the Cyprus conflict of 1974. The IPC serves as a mechanism for Greek Cypriots and other affected individuals who lost the right to use and occupy of their properties due to the Turkish invasion. It aims to offer a solution either through the restitution of property or compensation for the loss or exchange.
The application to the IPC may be filed until 21 December 2025.
Conditions to File an Application with the Immovable Property Commission (IPC)
1. The applicant must prove ownership of the property before 20th July 1974. This can be achieved through documents such as land deeds, registration certificates, or any other legal records demonstrating ownership.
2. No other persons have a claim in the property.
3. The property was not subject to mortgage and/or seizure before 20th July 1974.
Procedure to File an Application with the Immovable Property Commission (IPC)
1. Preparation of Documents:
The first step in filing an application with the IPC is to gather all the necessary documentation. This may include:
• Certified copy of the title deed for the property
• Certified copy of the applicant’s passport or ID
• In case the applicant is a company, certified copies of the incorporation certificate, as well as certificates of directors, shareholders, and registered address, must be provided
• Where the property is in the name of a deceased person, the application can be submitted by the legal heirs of the deceased. A certified declaration listing the names of the legal heirs must be obtained from the village chief (Muhtar) of the village where the deceased resided. In some cases, the property must first be transferred to the heirs before they can apply.
• Where the affidavit is sworn by a representative, a power of attorney authorizing the representative to swear the affidavit must be provided, along with a certified copy of the representative’s passport or identity card.
• Where the application is being made by an advocate a retainer form signed by the applicant appointing the advocate.
2. Notification of the Decision:
Once a decision is made, the applicant will be notified in writing. The decision may involve one of three outcomes:
o Restitution: If the property can be returned to the applicant, the IPC will facilitate the process of transferring the title back to the original owner or their heirs.
o Compensation: If the property cannot be returned, the applicant will receive compensation based on the assessed value of the property at the time of loss or its current market value.
o Alternative Compensation (Exchange): In some cases, the IPC may offer alternative compensation, such as an exchange for another property that may be located within the Turkish-controlled areas of Cyprus.
Conclusion
The Immovable Property Commission (IPC) provides a legal avenue for Greek Cypriots and others who lost property during the 1974 to seek restitution or compensation. The procedure for filing a claim requires the applicant to meet specific eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents, and follow a structured application process. By adhering to the prescribed conditions and procedures, applicants can seek redress for their property losses, either through the return of their immovable property or through compensation.
Contact us
Office 00357 2246 6611
Mobile 00357 9921 1520
m.kyriacou@pyrgouvakis.com
www.pyrgouvakis.com
