Who pays for compliance certificates — buyer or seller?

Compliance certificates confirm your property meets safety standards. They are required before transfer — but who pays, and for which certificates?

Default position: seller pays

Unless the OTP states otherwise, the seller arranges and pays for all compliance certificates. This includes:

• Electrical COC — valid 2 years, covers all electrical installations
• Plumbing certificate — required in many KZN municipalities
• Beetle certificate — wood-destroying insects in accessible timber
• Gas certificate — if gas appliances are installed
• Electric fence certificate — if electric fencing is present

Timing matters

Order certificates early enough to avoid transfer delays — but not so early they expire before registration. Electrical COCs are valid for 2 years; beetle certificates typically 3–6 months. If transfer delays, you may need re-certification at additional cost.

Certificate failures

If a property fails inspection, the seller must rectify and re-inspect. Common failures: non-compliant DB boards, gas leaks, beetle infestation, electric fence energizer issues. Budget R5,000–R30,000 for rectification depending on the issue.

Related: Compliance Certificates Guide · What Certificates Are Needed?