What Is Occupancy Certificate And Why You Must Check It Before Buying A Home

An Occupancy Certificate (OC) from your developer is proof of the project’s compliance to safety norms. It also certifies you as the legal owner of your property. Here’s why it is an important document for a home-buyer and developer

An electronic billboard lights up the entrance of an under-construction luxury residential project announcing the countdown to the exact date that the home-buyers will receive the Occupancy Certificate (OC) from the developer and reside in their luxury apartment as legal home-owners. This brings the spotlight on the significance of an OC  for both, the developer and the home-buyer in a property deal. 

More about OC Occupation Certificate
An OC is a legal certification that declares the building – residential or commercial – as ready for occupation. It is issued to the developer of a project by the local authority within 30 days, certifying that the building has been constructed according to the approved plans and is in compliance with all the provisions stated under the existing building bye-laws of the state. In fact, under Section 11 (4) (B) of the RERA Act, it is mandatory for a developer to obtain a completion/occupancy certificate from the local authority.

“Ideally, only after receiving the OC can people occupy the building as connection for civic amenities like water and electricity can be applied only once the OC is received. But in most cities, home-buyers occupy their flat before they receive the OC. Even while it is illegal, the practice has been quite prevalent,”.

“In Telangana and other cities, the authorities issue a Completion Certificate (CC) to state that the building is habitable. On the basis of the CC the builder can apply for water, electricity and sanitation connections.

Join The Discussion

Compare listings

Compare