New Compensation Rules Issued for Protected Heritage Buildings

Egypt’s Cabinet has approved new operating rules for the committee responsible for estimating compensation in cases where demolition or structural additions are prohibited for buildings and structures with distinctive architectural character.

The decision, published in the Official Gazette, brings into force the framework governing how compensation is assessed and paid when owners are prevented from demolishing or adding to properties protected under Law No. 144 of 2006.

The law regulates the demolition of buildings that are not at risk of collapse and provides protections for properties considered to have architectural or heritage value.

Under the newly approved rules, the Committee for Estimating Compensation will determine the amount due in eligible cases according to specified assessment criteria. The framework also identifies the competent entity responsible for disbursing compensation.

The rules apply to both buildings and other structures classified as having a distinctive architectural style. They do not change the existing restrictions preventing demolition or structural additions to protected properties, but instead establish the mechanisms through which affected owners can be compensated.