We Know Property

The Court of Appeal has handed down its judgment in the case of Apostolides v Orams.  The Court of Appeal has decided in favour of Meletis Apostolides and requires the Orams to demolish their house on Apostolides land in Northern Cyprus. The judgment provides that the Cyprus judgments be registered and enforced in the UK.  The judegment included

• Cease trespassing on the land belonging to Apostolides;

• Deliver up possession of the land to Apostolides;

• Pay ‘mesne profits’ (effectively, rent) to  Apostolides in respect of the period of their occupation;

• Knock down the villa and fencing built on Apostolides land; and

• Pay certain sums in respect of Apostolides’ costs of the proceedings.

The case is expected to pave the way for hundreds of similar claims against British citizens who bought property in the Turkish-controlled part of the country. Some of the blame could be placed on those agents and developers involved in the sale, particularly if the Brits bought in good faith.