Essential documents homebuyers need to be aware of.

Selling your property is a complicated affair. Beyond finding a reputable property practitioner to market and sell your home, homeowners are also required to ensure that their property meets the recommended regulatory requirements. 

These regulatory requirements are set out in sections 5, 7, and 9 of The Electrical Installation Regulations amendment to the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993. They are awarded by registered and accredited professionals who will then conduct a home survey.

Homeowners and Property Practitioners selling your home are not necessarily qualified to conduct, inspect and approve electrical or water work. As such, third-party certification is required for homeowners to sell their homes effectively and legally. 

Let's take a look at some of the crucial documentation required.

Electric compliance certificate (ECC)

An ECC is an essential document that the homeowner must renew every two years, and all amendments or alterations must be up to date and listed. An ECC certificate will cover modifications to DB boards, socket outlets, wiring, switches, earthing and bonding of all metal work such as satellites, antennas or any other fixed appliance which transmits an electrical current. Inspectors will also be responsible for checking fixed appliances such as geysers, stoves, fans, and heaters.

Should there be an issue with any appliances after purchase, new homeowners are encouraged to contact the company or electrician that awarded certification for any repairs. If accreditation is unduly rewarded, any expenses on repairs done after that will be the responsibility of the electrician and not the previous homeowner. 

Gas Compliance Certificate (GCC) 

GCCs are required for, as the name states, gas appliances in your home. This covers inspection for gas stoves, heaters, geysers, braais, and fireplaces and is only issued once installation has been properly checked and accredited.

Once an authorised expert is satisfied that other elements, such as emergency shut-off valves, are installed correctly, and in the correct position concerning electrical points, then compliance will be issued. Outdoor gas cylinders are also covered and must remain at a certain distance from doors, windows, drains, and electrical points.

Electrical Fence Certificate

Since electrical fences cover the perimeter of your home, separate certification to the ECC is required. Electrical Fence Certification is usually issued once an installation is complete and checked. However, should there be any modifications to the layout or if the home is placed on the market, a subsequent certificate will need to be issued.

Homeowners must also renew certification within two years.

Complications and who pays for what?

While it is generally accepted that the seller pays for the initial phase of compliance inspections, there are very few cases where the opposite may be true. Keep in mind that there is no legal obligation for the seller to take full responsibility for the costs involved as there may be extenuating factors.

However, should a compliance certificate be issued and found invalid or incorrectly awarded, the buyer may insist that the seller ensure that installation assessments are up to the latest standards.

If defects or issues are found during an inspection, then any party who accepted the responsibility for the title deed is thus liable for said repairs to be carried out. Therefore, the seller is accountable for the certificate's cost.

If you are still unsure about the details listed in this piece, please contact one of our Property Practitioners for more assistance. We are always happy to assist.

If you are looking to buy or sell your home, contact one of our Real Estate Property Practitioners, follow the link: https://www.homesofdistinction.co.za/agents/

Homes of Distinction CC holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.