In September 2025, the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber ( CSC ) completed a large-scale assessment of the damage caused to residential and other properties as a result of a major forest fire that occurred on July 23 in the mountainous region of Limassol .
The work began on August 5, just a few days after the meeting between Minister Constantinos Ioannou and ETEK President Constantinos Konstantin , where the decision was made to involve the Chamber in assessing the damage. Specialists were trained and began conducting site visits, relying on a previously developed and approved methodology.
The assessment covered approximately 760 applications , 650 of which concerned residential real estate and structures. Approximately 100 cases were rejected because they did not meet the assessment criteria (for example, they involved vehicles, equipment, and other non-real estate assets).
Classification of damage
Objects that were not completely destroyed were classified according to the level of damage:
- minor damage – about 220 objects , with an average restoration cost of €3,700 ;
- partial damage of moderate and significant severity – about 100 objects , average restoration cost – €30,000 ;
- total destruction —approximately 325 buildings —with the average restoration cost being €115,000 . The cost varied depending on the type, size, and level of construction of the buildings.
The total cost of restoring all damaged buildings was estimated at 40 million euros , of which approximately 90% was for completely destroyed buildings and structures.
The appraisal methodology was based on current market prices, taking into account the building category, area (in square or linear meters), and degree of deterioration. This ensured transparency, speed, scale, and standardization of the process.
The ETEK President noted that the Chamber and professional engineering organizations in Cyprus demonstrated a high level of preparedness to respond quickly to emergency situations. Architects, civil engineers, surveyors, and contractors were involved—all of whom contributed to the creation of a reliable picture of the disaster’s aftermath.
It is specifically emphasized that objects without permits and those that were insured were not included in the assessment process.
