COC Certificates
Everything you need to know about Certificates of Compliance in South Africa
Not sure which certificates you need? Our experts can help you determine which COCs are required for your property.
What are Certificates of Compliance?
Certificates of Compliance (COCs) are documents that certify that certain installations in a property meet the required safety standards as set out in the South African National Standards (SANS). These certificates are typically required when selling a property and are essential for ensuring the safety of the property's occupants.
In South Africa, certain COCs are legally required when transferring property ownership, while others may be requested by banks, insurance companies, or buyers as a condition of sale.
Validity Period
2 years
Typical Cost
R 850 - R 1,500
Legal Requirement
Electrical Installation Regulations (2009) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act
Key Information:
- Required by law when selling a property
- Must be issued by a registered electrical contractor
- Covers all fixed electrical installations
- Valid for 2 years if no alterations are made
- Required by municipalities, banks, and insurance companies
Validity Period
2 years
Typical Cost
R 600 - R 1,200
Legal Requirement
Pressure Equipment Regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act
Key Information:
- Required by law when selling a property with gas installations
- Must be issued by a registered gas installer
- Covers all gas installations and appliances
- Valid for 2 years if no alterations are made
- Required by municipalities, banks, and insurance companies
Validity Period
2 years
Typical Cost
R 800 - R 1,400
Legal Requirement
Electrical Machinery Regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act
Key Information:
- Required by law when selling a property with an electric fence
- Must be issued by a registered electric fence installer
- Covers the entire electric fence installation
- Valid for 2 years if no alterations are made
- Required by municipalities, banks, and insurance companies
Validity Period
Not specified
Typical Cost
R 600 - R 1,200
Legal Requirement
City of Cape Town Water By-law (2010) - Only mandatory in Cape Town
Key Information:
- Only mandatory in Cape Town when selling a property
- Must be issued by a registered plumber
- Covers all water installations and water-borne sewage
- No specific validity period
- Required by the City of Cape Town municipality
Validity Period
3-6 months
Typical Cost
R 600 - R 1,000
Legal Requirement
Not legally required nationwide, but often required in coastal areas
Key Information:
- Not legally required but often requested by banks and buyers
- Common in coastal areas, particularly Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal
- Must be issued by a registered pest control company
- Usually valid for 3-6 months
- Inspects all accessible wooden structures for beetle infestation
In South Africa, the transfer of property ownership is governed by various laws and regulations that require certain certificates to ensure the safety and compliance of the property. These requirements are primarily outlined in:
Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)
This act and its regulations require electrical, gas, and electric fence installations to comply with safety standards, with certificates issued by registered professionals.
Electrical Installation Regulations (2009)
These regulations specifically require an Electrical Certificate of Compliance for any property transfer, with the certificate valid for 2 years if no alterations are made.
City of Cape Town Water By-law (2010)
This municipal by-law requires a Plumbing Certificate of Compliance for property transfers within the City of Cape Town's jurisdiction.
Important Legal Notes:
- Failure to provide required certificates can delay or prevent property transfer
- Insurance claims may be rejected if the property does not have valid certificates
- Banks may withhold mortgage approval without the required certificates
- The sale agreement should clearly specify which party is responsible for obtaining and paying for the certificates
Need Help with Certificates of Compliance?
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