What is an Occupancy Certificate?

An occupancy certificate is an important legal document issued by local municipal authorities. It certifies that a newly constructed building:

• Is constructed as per the plan approved by the local authority.
• Satisfies various building rules and regulations.
• Is fit for occupancy, with necessary facilities like electricity and water supply.

If you are buying a house, your builder should provide this certificate before handing you possession.

Importance of Occupancy Certificate?

Now that you know what an occupancy certificate is, here is why it's in your best interest to ensure that this certificate exists:

1. An OC serves as proof that the building has been constructed per local building codes and safety standards. Without it, the property may be considered illegal, putting owners at risk of eviction or legal action from municipal authorities.
2. Municipal corporations typically require an OC before providing essential services such as water, electricity, and sanitation connections. Without an OC certificate for building, you as a homeowner may struggle to secure these basic amenities, affecting your quality of life.
3. The absence of an OC certificate for the building will also pose problems for you to get home insurance. Also, without this certificate, you could get problems in renting and selling the place.

Application Process for Occupancy Certificate

The process of obtaining an OC certificate can vary depending on the state or local authorities. Here is a general process for obtaining an occupancy certificate in Tamil Nadu:

1. Visit the Local Authority: Go to the Chief Executive Officer of the housing development board or the local municipal authority where the property is located.
2. Submit the application for occupancy certificate: Fill out the application form for the occupancy certificate and submit it along with the required documents.
3. Pay Fees: Pay any applicable fees associated with the application process.

Once you apply for an occupancy certificate following the above steps, here is what will happen next:

1. A verifying officer will refer to the relevant public agencies to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
2. They will then conduct an inspection of the property to ensure it complies with the approved building plan.
3. After the application for occupancy certificate along required documents have been inspected, the Nodal officer will generate the NOC, and subsequently, the occupancy certificate will be issued.

It is important to note that it is the responsibility of a builder to obtain an occupancy certificate.

Document Requirement for Occupancy Certificate

Here are some document requirements for occupancy certificate application:

1. Project Commencement Certificate
2. Project Completion Certificate
3. No Objection Certificates for Fire and Pollution
4. Copy of the building’s sanctioned plan
5. Area computation sheet of the floor signed by an approved architect
6. Photographs of the building
7. Latest tax paid receipt with the tax assessment.
8. Photographs of solar panels and rainwater harvesting (If applicable)

Difference Between Occupancy Certificate and Completion Certificate

While both the occupancy certificate (OC) and completion certificate (CC) are essential documents in the real estate sector, they serve different purposes.

An OC certifies that the building is safe for occupancy and complies with all safety and building regulations, whereas a CC certificate is issued to confirm that the construction of a building is complete and has been carried out according to the approved building plans and local regulations.

To put it simply, obtaining an OC certificate for building means that the owner can legally occupy the flat/house and it is fit to live in. On the other hand, obtaining a Completion Certificate does not mean that the owner of the flat/house can legally occupy and possess it.

Checking Occupancy Certificate Online Status

The process of checking occupancy certificates online can vary depending on the state and local government regulations. However, here is a general guide you can follow:

1. Visit the official website of the local municipal corporation or authority where the property is located.
2. Look for the "Building Permission" or "Building Proposals" section on the website.
3. From the list of services provided, select the option for "Occupancy Certificate" or "OC".
4. Fill in the required details of the property, such as the address and application number.
5. Submit the information and wait for the results to be displayed on the website

In some cases, while checking the occupancy certificate online, you will get the option to download the OC certificate on the website only. However, if the website does not have this option, you will need to visit the local municipality in person to obtain the certificate copy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, securing an Occupancy Certificate is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring legal occupancy of your property. Whether you’re exploring property for sale in Chennai or some other state, always verify the presence of this essential document. It safeguards your new home against legal issues, offering you peace of mind and security.

If you are someone looking for land for sale in Manali New Town or other parts of Chennai, consider exploring the reputable projects by Ashok Nandavanam. Our development not only prioritizes compliance with legal requirements but also promises a secure and fulfilling living experience.