Thousands of properties across Greece — including many in Rhodes and the Dodecanese — contain unauthorized constructions or extensions built without the required planning permits. These irregularities can block a property sale, prevent mortgage approval, and create legal liability for both buyers and sellers.
Greek law provides a framework for regularising these constructions, but the process involves multiple government bodies, technical documents, and strict deadlines.
Property legalization is the legal process of regularising constructions that were built without a permit, or that deviate from the approved building permit. This includes unauthorized extensions, enclosed verandas, basement conversions, additional floors, and outbuildings.
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At the Law Office of Theodosia Karalla, we guide property owners and foreign buyers through every step of the legalization process, ensuring your property is fully compliant before — or after — purchase.
The primary legislative framework is Law 4495/2017 (Government Gazette A’ 167/2017), which governs the control, protection, and regulation of the built environment in Greece.
Important: Extended Deadlines Under Law 4495/2017
Recent amendments to Law 4495/2017 have extended key urban planning deadlines. The deadline to regularize unauthorized constructions (Categories 1–4) and prepare the Electronic Building ID for public buildings has been extended to 31 March 2028.
This extension gives property owners additional time to regularise existing irregularities — but acting early is strongly recommended, as the process can take several months and is required before any property transfer can take place.
Our Property Legalization Services
For foreign buyers purchasing property in Greece from the UK, USA, Germany, or elsewhere, unauthorized constructions are one of the most common — and most overlooked — legal risks. Many properties advertised online contain irregularities that are not disclosed upfront.
Our office carries out a full legal and technical due diligence on every property before you sign a contract. If irregularities are found, we advise you on the cost and timeline of regularization, and negotiate with the seller on your behalf to resolve the issue before completion.
If you own a property in Greece with unauthorized constructions, or if you are buying a property and want to ensure it is fully compliant, contact our office today for a free initial consultation.
The Law Office of Theodosia Karalla has extensive experience in property legalization across Rhodes and the Dodecanese — for Greek residents and foreign owners alike.