An occupancy certificate is an official confirmation that a completed building meets the requirements to be lived in or used. It signals that the relevant authority is satisfied the structure is safe and compliant for occupation.
Where you’ll see it
You’ll see an occupancy certificate around the completion and handover of a building, as part of the approvals a developer must obtain before units can be occupied and utilities fully connected.
Why it matters
Occupying a building without the proper completion approvals can be unsafe and non-compliant. The occupancy certificate is evidence that the building has passed the checks that allow people to move in.
What it is not
An occupancy certificate is not a title deed or proof of ownership — it concerns the building’s fitness for occupation, not who owns a unit. It is also distinct from the building completion certificate, though the two are related approvals.
Example
Before owners take handover of their apartments, the developer secures the completion approvals, including confirmation the building may be occupied, so residents can move in and connect utilities lawfully.
Connected documents and parties
Occupancy/completion approvals, handover documents; developer, authorities, owners.
Going deeper: related reading: handover and completion certificate.
Related Terms
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