Many property owners hear terms like “Eurocodes” or “KAN.EPE.” from their engineer without fully understanding what they actually mean—or whether they apply to their own property.
In practice, however, these regulations are far from theoretical. They play a decisive role in whether a building can be constructed, strengthened, regularised, or even transferred without legal or technical issues.
In this article, we explain in simple terms:
- when Eurocodes apply,
- when KAN.EPE. is required,
- and what all this means in practical terms for a property owner.
When Property Owners Encounter the Eurocodes
Eurocodes do not apply only to large apartment buildings or public projects. In reality, property owners encounter them much more often than they might expect.
Whenever a new building, an additional floor, or a residential extension is designed, the load-bearing structure must be studied according to the applicable Eurocodes. These standards define how loads are distributed, how a building behaves during an earthquake, and how construction materials work together.
In simple terms, Eurocodes answer the question: “How should a building be designed today in order to be safe?”
Learn more about structural design for new buildings
Why Older Buildings Require a Different Approach
Most buildings in Greece were constructed in different periods, under older regulations or with incomplete technical documentation. Many have undergone modifications, while others have been affected by earthquakes or natural material ageing.
In such cases, applying the rules used for new construction is not sufficient. An existing building has a “history” that must be assessed on its own terms.
This is precisely why KAN.EPE. exists—it focuses exclusively on the safety assessment of existing structures.
What KAN.EPE. Is and What It Examines in Practice
KAN.EPE. (Greek Code for Structural Interventions) works like a health check for a building. It does not assess how the structure should have been built, but how it behaves today and whether it can continue to be used safely.
The engineer documents the building’s geometry, examines construction materials, and evaluates its seismic performance. If weaknesses are identified, technical solutions or strengthening interventions are proposed—only where they are truly necessary.
A structural adequacy assessment is commonly required in cases such as:
- older buildings without a complete technical file,
- regularisation of unauthorised constructions,
- changes of use,
- completion of the Building Identity File.
Learn more about structural adequacy studies for existing buildings
Eurocodes and KAN.EPE.: How They Work Together in Practice
Although these are different regulatory frameworks, they often work together in real projects. For example, when an additional floor is added to an existing building, the existing structure is assessed under KAN.EPE., while the new construction is designed according to the Eurocodes.
Their correct application requires experience and a comprehensive understanding of the project. There is no single solution for every property – each case must be evaluated individually.
When Laws and Authorities Require Them
These regulations are closely linked to:
- Law 4495/2017,
- regularisation of unauthorised buildings,
- the Building Identity File,
- property transfers and changes of use.
In older properties where no technical file exists, a new survey or a structural adequacy study may be required in order to document the safety of the load-bearing structure before any procedure can be completed.
What This Means in Practice for Property Owners
For property owners, the key question is simple: Can I use or transfer my property without risk?
The answer depends on whether the structural condition has been properly assessed and the appropriate regulations have been applied. Those who start the process early avoid delays, additional costs, and unpleasant surprises.
Structural assessment is not an obstacle—it is a tool that protects both safety and property value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Eurocodes required for every property?
No. They mainly apply to new constructions or extensions. Existing buildings are usually assessed under KAN.EPE.
When is a structural adequacy study required?
When the building is old, lacks a complete file, undergoes a change of use, or when required for regularisation or the Building Identity File.
Can I transfer a property without a structural assessment?
In many cases, no. If there are structural modifications or doubts regarding safety, authorities often require proper documentation.
Are strengthening interventions always mandatory?
No. A study may confirm that the building is structurally adequate and does not require reinforcement.
