The compliance certificates you need when selling your house

Selling your home is an exciting process, but it does take preparation. Beyond sprucing up your space and listing it for sale, you will also need to prove your home meets certain basic safety standards. Compliance certificates are required by law and often catch sellers by surprise. Kellaprince Properties answers common questions related to these documents. 

What is a compliance certificate in real estate?

As a seller, you will need to produce compliance certificates that prove your home meets certain levels of safety. These certificates need to be released by accredited service providers who will inspect your property and affirm it is in good working order. The certificates you require depend on certain home features you may have and the area you are located in. 

Why is a compliance certificate important?

While it may seem like a frustrating property 'tax', compliance certificates are a vital part of the seller process. Firstly, only a legally compliant property can be transferred. The transferring attorney must have all relevant compliance certificates before this is done. Banks will also usually need compliance certificates for security purposes before they issue a home loan.

Secondly, these compliance certificates work in the best interests of both sellers and buyers. For buyers, it can prove certain aspects of the home are in good condition and boost the sellability of the property. The process of gaining compliance certificates can also help sellers rectify any issues needed to be fixed that may arise during an inspection. For the buyer, compliance certificates done by accredited professionals can provide peace of mind that a property meets current essential safety regulations.

What are the types of compliance certificates?

Here are the main certificates you need for a smooth transfer process. These are prescribed by law and carry penalties for non-compliance:

• Electrical compliance certificate: A leakage current can flow through you when you touch a 'leaking' appliance, so it's important to ensure that your electrical installation is up to code. This compliance certificate carries information on your wiring, outlets, light switches, and earthing. It also includes an assessment of your fixed appliances from geysers, and stoves, to fans. 
   
• Gas compliance certificate: An inspection evaluates all the gas connections on your property. It is a must if you have any built-in gas stoves, geysers, braais, or fireplaces. The certificate ensures that your gas appliances are in the correct position in relation to electrical points and a safe distance from buildings, doors, and drains.
   
• Electric fence compliance certificate: If you have an electrical fence system installed, you will need this certificate. It's also a requirement if you update or extend your current system. The certificate indicates that you comply with the prescribed safety standards of the Occupational Health & Safety Act.

There are two other compliance certificates that don't apply to Mpumalanga residents. A water installation compliance certificate is required in areas within the City of Cape Town municipality. It ensures there are no plumbing defects, water metres work correctly, and there is no cross-contamination between clean water and sewer systems. A beetle compliance certificate is required in coastal areas that are impacted by wood-destroying beetles. It confirms your property is free from them, as inspected by a professional. 

Who can issue a compliance certificate?

It can be tempting to have a friend do your inspection or use the suspiciously affordable services on a street pole sign. However, only an accredited service provider should be contacted as they have the expertise to do the job properly. Be sure to check their credentials before investing in any services.

How long does a compliance certificate last?

Because regulations can change, compliance certificates need to be up to date. Depending on the type of certificate, they can be valid for up to two years. This can give you plenty of time to find a seller, so you don't have to scramble at the last minute. 

Make your seller journey effortless

Besides being a legal requirement, compliance certificates ensure your home is safe and a worthy option for a potential buyer. Having an experienced property professional on your side is also a must for a successful sale. Kellaprince Properties has a whole team of practitioners that are here to help. List your property with us today.