I heard that a British couple may lose their home in northern Cyprus and have to compensate the Greek Cypriot owner. I own a house there; should I be worried? RT-S, south London

Last month the European Court of Justice backed the right of a Greek Cypriot to reclaim land he was forced to abandon in the north of the island when it became divided in 1974. If the English court agrees with the decision then it seems highly likely that the British couple will lose their home. If so it could set a precedent.

If your house was in the same ownership from 1974 until you bought it then you should be safe. If, however, there is a claim on your land, you have the choice of either doing nothing and hoping for the best, which is a risky option, or being proactive and starting some form of negotiation with the person(s) concerned. You will need to employ a reputable, experienced lawyer.

John Howell is a senior partner at the International Law Partnership; www.lawoverseas.com

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