In Episode 13 of The Property Buyers Guide, Justina Hamupembe, also known as YourHomeGirl, explores an essential yet often-overlooked part of property transactions—compliance and completion certificates.
Joining her is Larry Mwikanda, Manager for the Building Control Division at the City of Windhoek, who breaks down the importance of these certificates, the process for obtaining them, and their associated costs.
Q1: What is a compliance certificate, and why is it necessary when buying or selling property?
Larry:
A compliance certificate is a legal document issued by a local authority certifying that a property meets applicable laws, regulations, and standards. It ensures that the building adheres to:
- The City of Windhoek Building Regulations
- Town planning and zoning laws
- The approved building permit without deviations
A compliance certificate is necessary for a property to be legally transferred from a seller to a buyer.
Q2: Why is a compliance certificate important in property transactions?
Larry:
It serves as a safeguard for buyers by:
- Ensuring the property is legally compliant and free from structural or legal issues.
- Protecting the buyer from future liabilities such as outstanding municipal account arrears or penalties.
Without this certificate, the new owner may inherit problems that could delay property registration or lead to costly corrections.
Q3: What is a completion certificate, and how is it different from a compliance certificate?
Larry:
A completion certificate is issued after a building or renovation project is finished. It confirms that:
- The construction adheres to the approved layout and structural safety standards.
- All necessary inspections have been conducted by municipal building inspectors or a professional engineer.
- The property is legally fit for occupation (sometimes called an occupancy certificate).
In contrast, a compliance certificate ensures an existing building aligns with the original approved plans, allowing its legal transfer to a new owner.
Q4: What is the process for obtaining these certificates, and what are the costs involved?
Larry:
The process differs for each certificate:
Completion Certificate:
- Requested after final construction is completed.
- A final inspection is conducted by municipal inspectors.
- Issued free of charge upon approval.
Compliance Certificate:
- The seller must submit an application form to the City of Windhoek.
- Application fees apply, depending on the suburb and property usage.
- A site inspection is conducted to verify compliance.
(Specific fees are outlined in the City of Windhoek’s structured application form.)
Conclusion
Justina wrapped up the discussion by emphasizing the importance of compliance and completion certificates in ensuring a smooth property transaction. Buyers should always verify that these documents are in place to avoid future legal or financial complications.
Stay tuned for more insights into the property-buying process next week on The Property Buyers Guide!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is specific to the City of Windhoek. Each town council may have its own processes and requirements for compliance and completion certificates. We encourage property buyers and sellers to check with their local municipal authority for applicable guidelines and regulations.
