Best Commercial Real Estate Lawyers in Melissia

About Commercial Real Estate Law in Melissia, Greece

Melissia is a residential and commercial suburb in northern Athens, located in the Attica region and administratively part of the Municipality of Penteli. Commercial real estate in Melissia covers retail shops, offices, professional services, small warehouses and hospitality uses that serve local residents and visitors. Legal issues that commonly arise in this market concern land ownership and title, zoning and permitted uses, building permits and safety approvals, leasing and sales transactions, taxation and registration with the national cadastre system.

Greek property law combines national statutes, regional planning rules and municipal regulations. Local practice involves notaries, lawyers, engineers and municipal planning offices. For anyone buying, selling, leasing or developing commercial property in Melissia it is important to understand both the national framework and the local rules enforced by the Municipality of Penteli and the Attica planning authorities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer helps protect your rights, reduce risk and complete transactions that comply with Greek law. Common situations that call for legal assistance include:

- Buying commercial property - to verify title, check encumbrances, confirm cadastral registration and advise on taxes and closing formalities.

- Selling commercial property - to prepare sale documents, handle tax clearances and ensure clean transfer of ownership at the notary.

- Leasing commercial premises - to draft or negotiate lease terms, address rent review mechanisms, exit rights, maintenance obligations and guarantees.

- Developing or renovating - to secure building permits, coordinate compliance with planning rules, obtain fire and safety approvals and confirm energy performance certification requirements.

- Zoning and permitted use disputes - to challenge or appeal municipal zoning decisions, change permitted use or obtain variances.

- Environmental or construction disputes - to address contamination risks, contractor disputes, liens and warranty claims.

- Tax and corporate structuring - to advise on VAT, property transfer tax, ENFIA property tax and optimal ownership structures for commercial real estate investments.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal and administrative aspects you should know for commercial real estate in Melissia include:

- Ownership and Title - Ownership must be supported by title deeds and reflected in the Hellenic Cadastre - Ktimatologio - where registered. Clear title, absence of mortgages or liens, and a correct property description are essential for sale or financing.

- Zoning and Land Use - The permitted uses of a property are determined by municipal zoning plans, general urban plans and regional planning rules. The Municipality of Penteli and the Attica Region issue and enforce local land use and building regulations.

- Building Permits and Certifications - Construction, alteration or change of use requires a building permit - oikodomiki adeia - and compliance with building code, fire safety rules and accessibility standards. An energy performance certificate is required when selling or leasing certain commercial properties.

- Registration and Notary Process - Transfers of immovable property are executed before a notary public and then registered with the cadastral or land registry office. The notary ensures the deed complies with legal requirements and checks outstanding encumbrances.

- Taxes and Duties - Transactions can trigger VAT or property transfer tax depending on the property type and seller status. Owners pay annual property tax - ENFIA - and applicable local taxes. The prevailing VAT rate was 24% as of 2024 for most taxable supplies, but treatment varies by transaction.

- Leasing Law - Commercial leases are primarily governed by contract law and the specific terms agreed between landlord and tenant. Important topics include duration, rent adjustments, subletting, maintenance responsibilities, security deposits and termination rights.

- Environmental and Health Rules - Certain commercial uses require environmental assessments, waste management plans, or health licenses - for example for food service or industrial activities. Local health and fire authorities may require additional approvals.

- Public Works and Expropriation - Public projects may affect property rights through compulsory purchase or planning instruments. Compensation, appeals and legal remedies follow national administrative law procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check who legally owns a commercial property in Melissia?

Ask a lawyer to conduct a title search through the Hellenic Cadastre - Ktimatologio - or the local land registry where the property is recorded. The search confirms the registered owner, any mortgages, liens or easements and the precise legal description. A lawyer will also obtain copies of all relevant title documents and identify risks.

Do I need a building permit to renovate a commercial space?

Most structural changes, external alterations or change of use require a building permit - oikodomiki adeia - from the municipality. Minor interior works may be exempt, but fire safety, accessibility and energy rules often apply. Obtain clear advice from an architect or lawyer before starting works.

What permits are required to open a retail or food business?

Typical requirements include municipal business registration, health and hygiene approvals for food businesses, fire safety certification, and any special licenses for alcohol or outdoor seating. Zoning must permit the business use. Specific permits depend on the sector and scale of operations.

How are commercial leases enforced and what terms should I negotiate?

Commercial leases are enforced under contract law. Negotiate clear terms on duration, rent and indexation, renewal and termination rights, security deposits, repair and maintenance responsibilities, liability allocation, subletting and assignment, and dispute resolution. Put key terms in writing and have a lawyer review or draft the agreement.

What taxes apply when buying commercial property?

Taxes may include VAT if the transaction is taxable, or property transfer tax if not. You should also budget for notary fees, registration fees at the land registry or cadastre, and any outstanding local charges. Annual ownership costs include ENFIA and local municipal taxes. Consult a tax adviser for precise calculations.

How long does it take to buy commercial property and register it?

Timelines vary. Completing due diligence and preparing the sale may take weeks. Notarial closing can occur quickly once documents are ready, but registration with the cadastre or land registry may take weeks to months depending on workload and complexity. Delays can occur if title defects, missing permits or tax issues arise.

Can a foreign investor buy commercial real estate in Melissia?

Yes, foreign individuals and companies can buy commercial property in Greece, subject to the same due diligence, notary and registration procedures as local buyers. In some cases, specific restrictions may apply near borders or for certain strategic assets. Foreign buyers should seek specialised legal and tax advice and ensure proper documentation for transfers and financing.

What is the role of the notary in a property sale?

The notary prepares and certifies the final deed of transfer, verifies identity and documents, confirms tax clearance obligations are met, and ensures the transaction follows legal formalities. The notary does not provide a full legal risk assessment - that is the lawyer's role - but is essential for execution and public recording of the transfer.

How can I protect myself from hidden liabilities when buying?

Carry out comprehensive due diligence - check title and encumbrances, confirm planning compliance and building permits, review any leases or tenancy agreements, obtain tax clearances and inspect for environmental or structural issues. A lawyer coordinates these checks and includes protective warranties and indemnities in the sale contract where appropriate.

What should I do if a municipal permit is refused or revoked?

First, obtain a written explanation from the municipal authority. You may be able to submit additional documents, apply for an amendment or appeal the decision administratively to the municipal or regional authority. If administrative remedies fail, judicial review in the administrative courts may be necessary. A lawyer experienced in administrative and planning law can advise and represent you.

Additional Resources

Key bodies and resources to consult when dealing with commercial real estate in Melissia include:

- Municipality of Penteli - local planning, building permits and business licensing.

- Hellenic Cadastre - Ktimatologio - for title registration and cadastral information.

- Ministry of Environment and Energy - national spatial planning and building code rules.

- Independent Authority for Public Revenue - AADE - for tax rules on property transactions and VAT guidance.

- Local Chamber of Commerce or Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry - business support and local market information.

- Technical Chamber of Greece - TEE - for engineering, building standards and technical attestations.

- Local notaries and certified chartered surveyors or civil engineers - for deeds, plans and building compliance checks.

- Greek Bar Associations and law firms specialising in real estate and administrative law - for legal representation and advice.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with commercial real estate in Melissia, follow these practical steps:

- Prepare basic information - property address, seller and buyer identities, any existing contracts, title documents and plans.

- Engage a local lawyer experienced in Greek commercial real estate to conduct due diligence, advise on tax and structuring, and draft or review contracts.

- Commission technical checks - ask an engineer or certified surveyor to inspect the property, confirm permits and identify construction or environmental issues.

- Consult a tax adviser to estimate transfer taxes, VAT exposure and ongoing tax obligations like ENFIA.

- Coordinate with a notary for the closing once legal and technical due diligence is complete and tax clearances are obtained.

- Keep clear records of all permits, approvals and correspondence with municipal or regional authorities for future use.

Note - this guide provides general information and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. For a transaction or dispute, meet with a qualified lawyer who can review your specific facts and recommend tailored next steps.