Building Certificates
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1. Rates Clearance Certificate (RCC)
Issued by: Local municipality (e.g., City of Johannesburg).
Purpose: Confirms that all municipal rates, taxes, and utility charges (water, electricity, sewerage, refuse) have been paid.
Required for: The conveyancing attorney to proceed with the property transfer.
Notes:
Without this certificate, the transfer cannot be finalized.
Usually requested by the conveyancer on behalf of the seller.
2. Electrical Compliance Certificate
Issued by: Licensed electrician (registered with the Electrical Contractor Board).
Purpose: Confirms that the property’s electrical installations are safe and comply with SANS standards.
Validity: Typically 2 years.
Notes:
Mandatory for bond registration and transfer.
Required for both residential and commercial properties.
3. Plumbing Compliance Certificate (if required)
Issued by: Licensed plumber or municipal inspection.
Purpose: Confirms that plumbing and sewer connections are compliant with municipal standards.
Notes:
Some municipalities require this for older properties or significant renovations.
4. Occupation / Certificate of Occupancy (if new building or major renovation)
Issued by: Municipality (Building Control Department).
Purpose: Confirms that the building was constructed legally and complies with building regulations.
Required for: New homes, major additions, or properties built without previous approval.
5. Energy Performance Certificate (Optional but Increasingly Required)
Issued by: Accredited energy assessor.
Purpose: Shows energy efficiency rating of the property.
Notes: Not mandatory in all areas yet, but may be requested by buyers or banks
6. Conveyancer / Attorneys Will Also Require
While not a “certificate” the following are usually needed for the sale:
Title Deed (original or municipal copy)
Identity Document of seller
Rates and utilities statement
Bond clearance certificate if the property is mortgaged