Compliance Certificates when a property has been SOLD - How, Where, What, Why?

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In South Africa, compliance certificates are crucial documents that property sellers and landlords must obtain to ensure their properties meet specific legal and safety standards. These certificates are important for protecting both buyers and tenants by verifying that the property is safe and compliant with relevant regulations.


Here are some of the key compliance certificates you may need for your property in South Africa:

  1. Electrical Compliance Certificate (COC): This certificate confirms that the electrical installation is safe and adheres to the South African National Standards (SANS). It must be issued by a certified electrician and is typically valid for two years.

  2. Plumbing Certificate of Compliance (COC): This certificate verifies that the plumbing system meets the standards set by local authorities. It must be issued by a qualified plumber and usually has a validity period of one year.

  3. Beetle and Pest Infestation Certificate: Particularly in coastal areas, a certificate may be required to confirm the property is free from wood-destroying pests like beetles and termites. An accredited pest control specialist conducts this inspection.

  4. Gas Compliance Certificate: For properties with gas installations, this certificate ensures the installation is safe. It must be issued by a registered gas installer. As of May 1, 2023, the Gas Compliance Certificates in South Africa have been updated to a new prescribed five-page document.

Additionally, in the City of Cape Town, sellers need to provide a water installation compliance certificate. This certificate verifies that the water installation conforms to national building regulations and that there are no defects causing water wastage or rainwater leaking into the sewerage system.

What About Solar Panels?



Now, the question is, do solar panels count as electrical installations? According to the regulations, an electrical installation refers to any machinery used to transmit electricity within a property. It covers everything from wires to sockets, but it excludes certain things like machinery related to the electricity supplier or communication devices.

It’s recommended to have all compliance certificates ready before the property is lodged for registration at the deed's office, as any issues in securing a certificate might lead to delays in the sale process. The responsibility to ensure the property is legally fit for sale rests on the seller. Banks also usually require these certificates before providing finance to ensure that the property is compliant with safety regulations.

If you’re preparing to sell a property or are a prospective buyer, it’s essential to be aware of these requirements to ensure a smooth transaction.



To obtain an Electrical Certificate of Compliance (ECOC) in South Africa, follow these steps:

  1. Hire a Registered Electrician: You can only get an electrical compliance certificate from a registered electrician. They will inspect and test your electrical installation to ensure it complies with the legal requirements stipulated in the Electrical Installations Occupational Health and Safety Act.

  2. Inspection and Testing: The electrician will thoroughly examine your electrical system, including wiring, lights, geyser, swimming pool, plugs, and distribution board (DB board). They will verify that everything meets the legislated standards.

  3. Compliance Verification: The electrician will issue the ECOC if your installation complies with the necessary regulations. The certificate confirms that the electrical work done is safe and adheres to the law.

  4. Buyer Considerations: If you’re selling a property, you can no longer transfer the COC originally received when you bought the property. Buyers should include a clause in the “offer to purchase” specifying that a recent ECOC must be provided. Otherwise, the buyer may need to arrange a new inspection at their expense.

Remember that the ECOC is not just a paperwork requirement—it’s a crucial safety document. Ensuring compliance protects your family or company and helps maintain a safe electrical installation. Always insist on seeing a valid certificate when renting or buying a property to ensure your safety and compliance. 🏠⚡️

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