For sellers
The two certificates you'll usually need
Electrical certificate of compliance
South Africa's Electrical Installation Regulations require the seller to provide a valid electrical COC when a property changes ownership. A registered electrician inspects and tests the installation: the DB board, earthing and bonding, earth leakage protection, wiring, plugs, lights and fixed appliances.
An electrical COC doesn't expire, but it only covers the installation as it was when it was issued. Many conveyancers and buyers ask for one issued within the last two years, or after any electrical changes.
Plumbing certificate of compliance
In Cape Town, the Water By-law requires a plumbing certificate of compliance before transfer. A PIRB-registered plumber checks that:
- there are no leaks and the water meter registers correctly
- the geyser and its valves, drip tray and overflow comply
- stormwater doesn't drain into the sewer system
- the water installation meets the by-law's requirements
Other certificates you might see
Depending on the property, conveyancers may also ask for a gas certificate, an electric fence certificate or a beetle certificate. These are handled by other specialists.
How to avoid transfer delays
- Book earlyArrange both inspections as soon as the offer is signed.
- Budget for remedial workOlder homes often need small fixes before a certificate can be issued.
- Use one point of contactWe coordinate the electrical and plumbing inspections together.
