Cyprus – Property Building and Renovation

Do you need planning permission to build or renovate a property in Cyprus?

In Cyprus, planning permission is a prerequisite for the overwhelming majority of development activities. The Town and Country Planning Law defines development broadly as “the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under immovable property, or the making of any material change in the use of any building or other immovable property.” This expansive definition means that construction, extensions, conversions, and renovation projects will almost universally require formal authorisation.

Where development falls within the scope of a General or Special Development Order, planning permission is not required — though a building permit will still be needed for any works undertaken. A planning permit is otherwise obligatory for any development, with the sole exception being those projects specifically listed under the General Development Order (K.D.P. 181/2024). If you are uncertain whether your proposed project qualifies for such an exemption, a formal ruling can be sought from the planning authority.

By lodging an application with the Planning Authority for a formal determination (Form EA9), you can obtain the authority’s official position on whether planning permission is needed for a given type of development. This is a prudent precaution to take before commissioning design drawings or agreeing to purchase a plot of land.

Unlike planning systems in countries such as Australia or Canada — where minor works may be exempt from approval under provisions that differ markedly between states and provinces — Cyprus has moved towards a unified national approach delivered through a centralised digital platform. As of 1 July 2024, all planning permit and building permit applications must be submitted electronically via the HIPPODAMUS electronic application submission and management system.

Responsibility for reviewing building applications has shifted from individual municipalities to five purpose-built regional development organisations covering Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and the free territories of Famagusta. Applications are lodged through the IPPODAMOS portal at gov.cy.

Cyprus has undertaken a significant reform programme to accelerate the permitting process. Approval timelines for small-scale developments have been cut to just 40 working days, as part of a wider effort to modernise the construction sector and address longstanding delays in housing delivery. This streamlined approach is aimed at low-risk “Category A” developments, which covers projects comprising up to two residential units.

Under this accelerated framework, a planning permit is granted within 20 working days, with a further 20 working days to obtain the building permit — 40 working days in total. For medium-risk “Category B” developments — which encompass complexes of up to 12 residential units, or apartment buildings with a maximum of 20 apartments, four storeys, and one basement — a combined total of 80 working days applies for both permits, with more rigorous compliance checks required throughout.

The step-by-step application process works as follows:

1. Engage a registered architect or civil engineer. Applications must conform to a new checklist framework, with responsibility for ensuring submissions meet all legal requirements placed squarely on private design professionals. Only ETEK-registered practitioners may sign and submit planning and building permit applications.
2. Determine the category of your development. Confirm whether your project is Category A (up to two units, low risk), Category B (medium risk), or whether it requires a full discretionary assessment by the planning authority.
3. Prepare and upload documents via IPPODAMOS. The IPPODAMOS system enables the electronic submission and review of all building permit applications across all development types, with simultaneous online payment of the applicable fees.
4. Pay the application fees. Fees are calculated according to the type and scale of the project and must be paid at the point of submission. Further fees may be required if the original payment proves insufficient. An electronic fees calculator is provided on the Department of Town Planning and Housing’s website. Always confirm current charges with your EOA, as a revised fee calculation methodology was being developed as of 2026.
5. Await the planning authority’s decision. On receiving an application, the planning authority issues an acknowledgement notification to the applicant or their authorised representative, identifying any gaps that need to be addressed. Contact details for monitoring the progress of the application are included in this notification.
6. Obtain the building permit. Following the issue of a planning permit, a separate building permit application is made. This technical review examines structural integrity, public utility provision, health and safety compliance, fire safety adequacy, and drainage and sewerage arrangements.
7. Apply for a Certificate of Final Approval upon completion. On completion of the building, the Municipality, District Office, or Town Planning Department is invited to inspect and confirm that construction has proceeded in accordance with the permits. This inspection should occur within two months of the request, though it may take four to six months depending on workload.

Certain planning permit applications may necessitate specialist studies — such as an environmental impact assessment, a traffic impact and management study, or a trade and social impact assessment. Your architect should advise you from the outset whether any such additional work is likely to be required.

Note that the fast-track system is still finding its feet. Since its launch in July 2024, the IPPODAMOS platform has experienced difficulties, including slow processing speeds and technical limitations. Build additional contingency time into your project schedule and check with your EOA for an accurate picture of current processing speeds.

What are the rules around listed buildings, conservation areas, and heritage protection in Cyprus?

Cyprus operates a formal heritage protection framework with broad similarities to listed building and conservation area regimes found in countries such as the UK or France, though the administrative structure and financial incentive mechanisms differ. The Department of Town Planning and Housing (DTPH), operating under the Ministry of Interior, is the government body responsible for spatial and land-use planning alongside the preservation of cultural heritage and landscape. Its functions in the heritage field include the incorporation of appropriate policies within Development Plans and the management of listed buildings. The Department is also responsible for issuing Preservation Orders for buildings, groups of buildings, and areas of architectural, historic, social, or other special significance, as well as for granting Planning Permits (Consents) for the rehabilitation of listed buildings and administering grant funding.

The bulk of Cyprus’s architectural heritage is privately owned, making collaboration between the public and private sectors vital for its protection, conservation, and enhancement. The government supports private investment in listed properties by offering financial backing for their rehabilitation through grants, tax deductions, and other incentives, including the transfer of development rights for listed buildings.

The DTPH maintains an Architectural Heritage Archive and can be approached to establish whether a given property or area is subject to a Preservation Order or other heritage designation prior to any purchase. A formal heritage check should always form part of your due diligence process. Alterations and renovation works to listed buildings require specific planning consents that differ from standard applications, and the range of permitted works is strictly controlled.

Under revised frameworks being introduced as of 2026, the maximum recognised restoration cost for listed buildings of up to 300 square metres increases from €1,400 to €1,700 per square metre; for buildings between 301 and 1,000 square metres the limit rises from €1,300 to €1,600 per square metre; while properties exceeding 1,000 square metres will see the ceiling increase from €1,000 to €1,300 per square metre. These figures are used to determine grant entitlement and incentives for restoration, not to prescribe actual expenditure — always confirm the latest rates with the DTPH.

Further reforms include plans to establish a single licensing point for restoration applications, create regional conservation offices, digitise cultural heritage records, and publish guidance for property owners and restoration professionals. These changes are ongoing — consult the DTPH website for the most current information before undertaking any works on a heritage property.

Forthcoming amendments affecting listed buildings include proposals to speed up consent for maintenance works and low-risk additions, alongside increases to the recognised restoration cost to better reflect current building prices. These reforms were still being developed as of early 2026; check with the Ministry of Interior or DTPH for their current status.

Carrying out unauthorised works on a listed building or within a protected area can trigger enforcement action, financial penalties, and orders to restore the property to its prior condition. The strength of these sanctions reflects the importance Cyprus places on safeguarding its architectural legacy. Always secure the appropriate listed building consent before commencing any works, however minor they may seem.

The Department of Town Planning and Housing (DTPH) — supervised by the Ministry of Interior — is the principal point of contact for heritage designations, Preservation Orders, and grant eligibility. For matters relating to archaeological heritage, the Department of Antiquities under the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works holds authority over ancient monuments and archaeological sites.

What permits and licences are required when building or renovating in Cyprus?

A construction project in Cyprus involves several distinct approvals beyond planning permission alone. To build, demolish, modify, extend, convert, or change the use of premises, you must first obtain a town planning permit covering the proposed works, followed by a building permit issued by the relevant local authority for the area in which the property is situated. These are two separate applications, even though both are now submitted through the same IPPODAMOS portal.

The town planning permit governs what may be built — specifying permitted uses, access arrangements, any land to be surrendered for public purposes, and the layout, appearance, density, height, and coverage of a building. The building permit then follows as a technical sign-off examining structural and safety standards.

The key permits and approvals required in a typical construction project are:

• Town Planning (Planning) Permit — confirms that the proposed development is consistent with zoning policies and the applicable development plan. Issued by the District Local Government Organisation (EOA) through the IPPODAMOS portal.
• Building Permit — provides technical confirmation that the structural design, fire safety measures, drainage, and utility supply arrangements are satisfactory. Also issued via the EOA through IPPODAMOS.
• Environmental Baseline Survey and Disposal Plan — before a building permit can be granted, an environmental baseline survey and a plan for disposing of any underground water that may need to be extracted during construction must be prepared and approved by the environmental department.
• Division Permit — where a larger plot is to be subdivided, an application for a division permit must be submitted alongside the building permit application.
• Fire Safety Approval — fire adequacy is reviewed as part of the building permit assessment, but separate sign-off from fire authorities may be required for commercial buildings or larger residential developments.
• Utility Connection Permits — connecting to mains water, sewerage, and electricity requires separate applications to the relevant utility providers, including the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Water Board, and the applicable sewerage board. These need to be coordinated with your construction programme.
• Certificate of Final Approval — once the Municipality, District Office, or Town Planning Department has verified that the completed building conforms to its permits, a Certificate of Final Approval must be obtained from the Building Committee via the supervising engineer, who prepares a report for submission to the local Civil Engineer. This document is essential for securing title deeds.

Where a property forms part of a large development, an environmental study may be required, potentially extending the process by a further six to eight months — despite a legal time limit of 30 days.

A proposed regulation, put forward on the recommendation of ETEK, would exempt certain structural upgrade works from the requirement to obtain a building permit. Under the proposal, such works would be subject to a special exemption notification procedure and was expected to undergo public consultation. This reform was still under consultation as of early 2026 — check the Ministry of Interior’s website for the latest position before assuming any works are exempt.

Always confirm current fees and timeframes directly with your local EOA or through the IPPODAMOS portal, as the fee calculation methodology was under revision as of 2026. A fees calculator and guidance notes are available on the Department of Town Planning and Housing website at dtph.gov.cy.

How do you find a reliable, trustworthy builder in Cyprus?

The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) is responsible for licensing and overseeing architects, civil engineers, valuers, and other professionals active in the construction and real estate sectors. Any builder or contractor working on a project requiring a building permit must operate under the supervision of an ETEK-registered professional. General building contractors — as distinct from architects and engineers — are not individually licensed to the same degree as in some other countries, which makes thorough vetting especially important.

Building inspectors are required to hold ETEK membership, and legislation obliges them to carry out their functions objectively, independently, and impartially. Under the new fast-track permitting system, self-monitoring by architects and on-site checks by designated building inspectors have been introduced, with compliance verified at three defined stages of construction.

The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) can be contacted at:

• Website: etek.org.cy
• Address: 9 Shakolas Building, 2nd Floor, Makedonitissas Ave., 2238 Nicosia, Cyprus
• Phone: +357 22 877 644
• Email: [email protected]

The Cyprus Civil Contractors Association (CCCA) represents the building contracting sector in Cyprus and can serve as a useful starting point when seeking established and reputable firms. Always verify current contact details and membership lists directly on their website, as these may change. The Cyprus Property Developers Association (CPDA) represents larger development companies and can provide references for sizable construction projects.

Practical steps to vet a contractor before signing any agreement:

• Request references and inspect completed work. Ask for the names and contact details of at least three recent clients in Cyprus and, where possible, visit completed projects in person. Be cautious of any contractor who is unable to supply references for recent local work.
• Verify ETEK membership of the supervising professional. Your architect or structural engineer must appear on the ETEK register, which can be searched at etek.org.cy.
• Insist on a detailed written contract. The contract must specify the full scope of works, materials to be used, a staged payment schedule linked to construction milestones, and a mechanism for handling variations and disputes. Contracts should be executed in both Greek and your preferred language.
• Use staged payments, not upfront lump sums. Make payments in instalments, each tied to clearly defined and independently verified construction milestones. Never pay the entire contract price in advance.
• Verify insurance. The contractor must hold current public liability and employers’ liability insurance. Request copies of valid certificates before work commences.
• Confirm tax and registration status. Ask for the contractor’s Tax Identification Number (TIN) and verify that they are registered with the Social Insurance Services, as unregistered businesses can expose you to legal and financial risk.

Some developers proceed with construction before obtaining the required permissions and permits. Buyers purchasing off-plan are frequently unaware of this — particularly when they rely on solicitors recommended by the developer. Illegal construction is a serious and pervasive problem in Cyprus. Always engage an independent lawyer and architect, rather than professionals sourced exclusively through the contractor or developer.

Common pitfalls include contractors who submit artificially low quotes to secure work and subsequently demand substantial additional payments, and those who subcontract to unvetted parties without disclosing this. Require the contractor to identify all intended subcontractors in the contract and obtain your prior consent before substituting any of them.

How do you find a qualified local architect in Cyprus?

To practise as an architect or engineer in Cyprus, registration with the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) and the holding of a current annual professional licence are both legal requirements. An unregistered architect cannot lawfully sign or submit planning or building permit applications in Cyprus. This mirrors the approach taken in countries such as France — where architects must be enrolled with the Ordre des Architectes — or Australia, where state-based registration schemes operate, but is applied through a single national register.

Under the ETEK Law, the professions regulated by the Chamber include Architecture (including Landscape Architecture), Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mine and Applied Geology Engineering, Agronomic-Topographic Engineering, Land Survey and Valuation, and Town and Spatial Planning.

The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber Law confers powers for the issuance of licences to practise across all areas of engineering science. Registered engineers are bound by the provisions of the ETEK Law, the Code of Conduct, and the Code of Ethics, as amended from time to time.

You can identify a qualified architect through the ETEK member directory. Contact ETEK directly to request a list of registered architects in your preferred district or with the relevant areas of expertise:

• Website: etek.org.cy
• Address: 9 Shakolas Building, 2nd Floor, Makedonitissas Ave., 2238 Nicosia, Cyprus
• Phone: +357 22 877 644
• Email: [email protected]

When selecting an architect as an expat or foreign national, consider the following points:

• Language. Many architects in Cyprus — particularly those based in Limassol, Paphos, and Larnaca — regularly work with international clients and are fully comfortable communicating in English. For other languages, consult ETEK or review individual firm websites. Ensure your architect can maintain clear communication with you throughout the design and construction phases.
• Experience with international clients. Ask specifically about their track record in guiding foreign buyers through the planning system, including any complexities involving title deeds, overseas mortgage lenders, or cross-border inheritance considerations.
• Local qualifications. Architects who obtained their qualifications abroad must demonstrate equivalence to ETEK’s standards in order to register. Always confirm ETEK membership and registration number independently — do not rely on the individual’s own representation.
• Fee agreement. Under the ETEK Code of Conduct, a project may only be commissioned on the basis of a written authorisation from the client, in which the agreed fee must be stated. Ensure all fee arrangements are documented in writing before any work begins.

It is strongly advisable to appoint your architect before purchasing land or a property requiring renovation, so that they can assess planning feasibility, heritage constraints, and zoning compliance before you become legally committed to the acquisition.

What are the common pitfalls when buying land to build on in Cyprus?

Purchasing a plot of land in Cyprus with the intention of building on it carries substantial risks if thorough due diligence is not performed. The following issues deserve careful investigation before committing to any acquisition.

Zoning and buildability. Urban and rural planning policy falls under the Department of Town Planning and Housing (DTPH), supervised by the Ministry of Interior. Local Plans and the Rural Development Plan classify land as agricultural, forest, residential, or protected. Most agricultural land is not available for residential development, except for specific exemptions relating to agricultural operations or public infrastructure. Never assume that land being offered for sale is suitable for building — always obtain written confirmation from the DTPH of the land’s zoning classification and permissible uses before exchanging contracts.

Title deeds and ownership history. Cyprus has a well-documented history of title deed complications. Some buyers find themselves without title deeds despite having paid the full purchase price, or while continuing to service a mortgage. This typically occurs when the seller is unable to transfer title — usually because they have already mortgaged the property without applying the sale proceeds to clear that mortgage. Always commission a comprehensive title search at the Department of Lands and Surveys (DLS) before purchasing, and instruct an independent solicitor — not one proposed by the seller or developer.

Land boundaries. Boundary disputes occur frequently in Cyprus. Engage an independent licensed land surveyor to verify plot boundaries against the cadastral records held at the land registry before completing any purchase. The Department of Lands and Surveys can be accessed at portal.dls.moi.gov.cy.

Environmental and coastal restrictions. Proposed environmental legislation would prohibit construction within 100 metres of the coastline. Where a plot forms part of a large development, an environmental study may be required. Any land near wetlands, rivers, protected landscapes, or Natura 2000 sites may be subject to significant additional constraints. Commission an environmental pre-purchase assessment for rural or coastal sites.

Utilities availability. Confirm with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Water Board, and the relevant sewerage board that connections to mains water, electricity, and sewerage are available to your plot, and establish the associated costs. In rural locations, connection charges can be considerable and may render a site financially unviable for residential development.

Agricultural land restrictions. Foreign nationals seeking to acquire agricultural land in Cyprus must obtain special permits, unless they hold permanent resident status. This restriction forms part of a policy controlling strategic land acquisitions by non-nationals.

Checking planning permission is achievable before purchase. Always make any offer to purchase conditional on receiving written confirmation from the DTPH that your intended development can be granted planning permission. An architect retained at this early stage can conduct a pre-application feasibility assessment.

Contract structure. Property sale contracts in Cyprus must be lodged at the District Lands Office to be legally protected against any subsequent mortgages or charges created by the seller. Failing to do this is a serious and frequently committed error. A copy of the purchase contract must be properly stamped by the Land Registry and Tax Department. Always use a fully independent Cypriot solicitor for conveyancing.

What are the rules around foreign ownership and financing for construction projects in Cyprus?

Cyprus is broadly welcoming to overseas property buyers, with foreign purchasers accounting for close to 50% of real estate transactions — a level of interest sustained through 2023 and 2024. However, a number of important distinctions and restrictions apply to foreign nationals acquiring land or undertaking construction projects.

EU nationals. Citizens of EU member states enjoy the same rights as Cypriot nationals when it comes to property acquisition. There are no limits on the quantity or type of property that EU nationals may purchase, including land earmarked for development.

Non-EU nationals (third-country nationals). Non-EU nationals may own up to 4,014 square metres of land. Properties intended for commercial or agricultural use may require additional approvals. Applications to purchase beyond this threshold must be submitted to the Council of Ministers. Foreign nationals wishing to acquire agricultural land must obtain special permits unless they hold permanent resident status.

Documents typically required when a non-EU national purchases property include survey and architectural plans of the property, evidence that the property will be used for personal purposes, a copy of the purchase contract duly stamped by the Land Registry and Tax Department, and receipts of payment.

Financing and mortgages. Foreign nationals may access mortgage products from Cypriot banks, though lending standards tightened considerably in the aftermath of the 2013 financial crisis. Banks typically require a substantial deposit — commonly 20–40% of the purchase price — together with proof of income and a satisfactory credit history. Some international lenders also offer financing for Cyprus property. Cypriot banks providing construction or development finance typically release funds in tranches aligned with verified construction progress, monitored by a bank-appointed surveyor — a process broadly comparable to self-build mortgage arrangements in countries such as the UK or Germany. Confirm current lending conditions and interest rates directly with Cypriot banks, as these are subject to frequent change.

VAT on new construction. New properties attract VAT at the standard rate of 19%. First-time buyers acquiring a home as their primary residence may, however, qualify for a reduced rate of 5% on the first 200 square metres. Conditions apply — confirm current eligibility criteria with a qualified Cypriot tax adviser.

Residency and visa conditions. Owning property in Cyprus does not automatically confer residency rights on non-EU nationals. A range of residency-by-investment pathways exists, and the relevant requirements have evolved in recent years. Consult the Civil Registry and Migration Department (moi.gov.cy) for current options linked to property investment.

For official guidance on foreign investment in property and construction, refer to the Business in Cyprus portal and the Department of Lands and Surveys.

What official sources should you consult when planning to build or renovate in Cyprus?

Before acquiring land, appointing a contractor, or submitting any planning application in Cyprus, the bodies and resources listed below should be your primary reference points. Regulations, fees, and procedures are updated regularly — always contact the relevant authority directly for the most current requirements.

Always appoint an independent, qualified Cypriot lawyer and an ETEK-registered architect at the earliest possible stage of any project. Official guidance is revised frequently, and many of the planning, building regulation, and heritage management reforms described in this article were still being implemented or subject to consultation as of early 2026.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it typically cost to build a house in Cyprus?

Building costs in Cyprus vary considerably depending on location, specification, and prevailing market conditions. As of 2025, construction costs across the island remain elevated. As a general guide, mid-range residential construction typically costs between approximately €1,200 and €2,000 or more per square metre for the build alone, not including land acquisition, professional fees, permitting costs, or utility connections. Obtain at least three detailed quotes from ETEK-supervised contractors and seek up-to-date cost benchmarks from a quantity surveyor before finalising your budget.

How long does the full planning and construction process take in Cyprus?

Under the new fast-track regime, planning and building permits for low-risk Category A developments can be secured within a combined total of 40 working days. Category B medium-risk projects require up to 80 working days for both permits. However, document preparation, addressing queries from the authorities, and the construction phase itself all add considerably to the overall timeline. From land acquisition to occupation of a newly built home, a realistic estimate is typically 18 months to three years, depending on the complexity of the project and how swiftly the required documentation is assembled and approved.

Do I need to speak Greek to deal with the planning authorities in Cyprus?

Official planning and building permit applications in Cyprus are conducted in Greek, and communications from the authorities are generally issued in Greek. Your ETEK-registered architect or civil engineer will handle all submissions on your behalf and liaise with the relevant bodies. Many architects practising in popular expatriate areas — particularly Limassol and Paphos — work routinely in English. The Ministry of Interior’s websites and the IPPODAMOS portal offer some English-language content. Engaging a bilingual architect and an independent lawyer is strongly recommended for any expat managing a construction project in Cyprus.

Are UK or US building standards or professional qualifications recognised in Cyprus?

Practising as an architect or engineer in Cyprus requires ETEK registration and an annual professional licence. Professionals who obtained their qualifications in EU member states may be eligible to register under EU mutual recognition arrangements. Those from non-EU countries — including the UK following Brexit and the US — will need to satisfy ETEK that their qualifications are equivalent and meet any additional requirements. UK building regulations and inspection frameworks differ from those operating in Cyprus; your ETEK-registered architect is responsible for ensuring all work complies with Cypriot legislation and building standards, not with requirements from any other jurisdiction.

What happens if I build without planning permission or breach planning rules in Cyprus?

Illegal construction is a serious and widespread issue in Cyprus. Where a building has been erected without the required permissions, the authorities have the power to issue a demolition order compelling removal of the unlawful structure. In addition to demolition orders, enforcement measures can include substantial financial penalties. Fines for minor planning violations may range from €300 to €3,000 under amnesty provisions, while more serious breaches attract heavier penalties and the possibility of criminal liability. Never commence any construction or significant renovation work without first confirming with your architect that all necessary permits are in place.

What should I do if I have a dispute with my builder in Cyprus?

If a dispute arises with a contractor in Cyprus, the first step is to invoke the dispute resolution mechanism set out in your written contract. If this does not resolve matters, mediation through the Cyprus Bar Association or your lawyer may be an option, and a complaint can be lodged with ETEK where the dispute involves a registered architect or engineer. For lower-value financial claims, the Small Claims Court provides a relatively accessible route; larger disputes are heard in the District Court. Preserve all written correspondence, contracts, payment records, and construction photographs as evidence. Commissioning an independent quantity surveyor or architect at the outset of a dispute to assess the quality of the work and estimate remediation costs is strongly advisable.

Can I get a mortgage in Cyprus as a foreign national to finance construction?

Foreign nationals — including non-EU citizens — can apply for mortgages from Cypriot banks, though lending terms and interest rates vary, and conditions are generally more cautious than in some other European markets. Banks typically require a deposit of at least 20–40% of the total project value, verifiable income, and a sound credit profile. Construction finance is usually drawn down in staged tranches, with each draw-down conditional on verified progress confirmed against the construction programme. Consult the Central Bank of Cyprus for regulatory information, and compare offers from multiple Cypriot banks and international lenders before making a commitment.

Is it safe to buy land in Cyprus without title deeds, if the seller provides a contract?

Purchasing property in Cyprus without title deeds carries significant risk. Some buyers find themselves without deeds even after paying the full purchase price, or while continuing to repay a mortgage — typically because the seller has already charged the property without using the sale proceeds to discharge that encumbrance. This “trapped buyer” situation has affected many purchasers across the island. While such purchases are legally possible, they are far from risk-free. Always instruct an independent solicitor to conduct a full title search at the Department of Lands and Surveys before contracts are exchanged, and ensure that your sale agreement is stamped and deposited at the Land Registry promptly to protect your interest against any subsequent charges.