Certain amendments to the Civil Code (Chapter 16 of the Laws of Malta), have come into force, with effect from 1^st April 2016, aimed at reducing the number of vacant, derelict and unused properties, by facilitating sales even when there is disagreement between co-owners.

the amendments have catered for a reduction in the time period after which a sale can go through by a decision of the majority, from 10 years to 3

The amendment facilitates the possibility for the majority of co-owners of an immovable property to decide to sell the property by requesting the Maltese Courts to approve a proposed sale. More specifically, the amendments have catered for a reduction in the time period after which a sale can go through by a decision of the majority, from 10 years to 3. The reduced 3-year period will apply with immediate effect. As such, owners of properties which have been in this situation from 1st April 2013 or before, may benefit from this new law.