A new era is taking shape for real estate in Greece, as by the end of 2026 the system of mortgage registries will be permanently abolished and the Cadastre will take over as the sole competent authority for managing all properties. This transition aims at the complete, final, and transparent recording of ownership, creating a more reliable and functional framework for the real estate market.
Although this change is expected to significantly simplify procedures such as transfers, parental gifts, and property transactions, at this stage it entails increased obligations for property owners. The need for immediate settlement of pending issues is becoming urgent in order to avoid future problems.
New deadlines and key changes
According to recent regulations, the completion of cadastral mapping is extended until the end of 2026. The extension was deemed necessary, as approximately 300,000 errors have already been identified in data transferred from the mortgage registries, which must be corrected.
At the same time, a new digital platform is planned, allowing citizens to correct omissions or errors in property declarations out of court. Alternatively, corrections can be carried out through certified engineers, who undertake the verification of data, correction of geometric information, submission of topographic diagrams, and registration of administrative acts.
Particular importance is also given to the Electronic Building Identity, which becomes mandatory for every property transfer, with a deadline for completion set for February 1, 2028.
In addition, an extension until March 31, 2028 is granted for the legalization of unauthorized constructions carried out before July 2011. This regulation concerns categories 1 to 4 (minor to medium-scale violations), while for properties built before 1983, a building permit is not necessarily required.
What property owners must do
Owners are urged to act immediately and consult an engineer in order to ensure the legality and proper registration of their property. The main steps include:
- Verifying the legal status of the property
- Comparing approved plans with the actual condition
- Classifying irregularities and calculating fines
- Submitting a declaration of unauthorized construction through the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE)
- Paying the required fees and fines
- Finalizing legalization and updating the Electronic Building Identity
In cases of older properties where plans are not available, a new topographic survey or even a structural assessment may be required.
Penalties and potential risks
Failure to comply with the new obligations may result in significant consequences. Fines may reach up to 10% of the objective value of the property, while the absence of an Electronic Building Identity makes any transfer impossible, such as sale, donation, or parental transfer.
Required documents
To complete the Electronic Building Identity, the collection of key documents is required, such as:
- Building permit and revisions
- Architectural plans
- Energy performance certificate
- Construction inspection certificate (where applicable)
- Declarations of legalized unauthorized structures
- Updated floor plans
- Structural study or technical report
- Ownership percentage table
In case the file has been lost, a relevant certificate from the competent Building Authority is required.
Conclusion
The transition to the Cadastre constitutes one of the most significant reforms in the field of real estate in Greece. Although in the long term it will greatly facilitate transactions and the utilization of properties, the adjustment period requires immediate action from property owners. Timely compliance with the new requirements is not only necessary to avoid fines but also crucial for safeguarding the value and future use of their property.