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What is a Completion Certificate (CC)?

The full form of CC in real estate is Completion Certificate. A Completion Certificate (CC) is an important legal document that certifies that a building is constructed according to the laid norms and master plan of the city. This document has all the information related to the project, such as the building materials used, building height, and building plan, among other details like the provision for green belt.

This document certifies that the building adheres to all the prevailing building bye-laws, and has not violated any norms. Homebuyers must note that the CC is mandatorily shown to the authorities to obtain electricity and water connections.

Builders are allowed to apply for a provisional Completion Certificate when there are minor works left in the project. Authorities then provide a provisional certificate valid for six months. After the expiry of six months, the developer is bound to get a final CC.

Who issues a Completion Certificate?

Local authorities issue the CC after a thorough inspection of the premises. If the developer abides by the rules, the concerned authority issues the certificate. It is issued by the local body after due scrutiny in three to four weeks.

What documents are required to obtain a CC?

Listed below are the documents required to receive the CC-

• Filled out application form
• Completion acknowledgement from a registered architect or civil engineer
• A copy of building plan approval
• Structural safety certificate from concerned departments
• Copy of NOCs for sewage, water supply, electricity connection, elevators, and fire evacuation, obtained from concerned departments
• Necessary declarations

How to obtain a Completion Certificate?

The Completion Certificate (CC) of a project can be obtained in the below-mentioned steps-

• The developer must apply the local municipal authority or the local development body for getting the Completion Certificate
• The application must be submitted with supporting documents
• Officers from the concerned certifying body will visit the project site and focus primarily on the construction quality of the property
• Violations of the prescribed construction and building norms may lead to project demolition
• Upon successful inspection, a signed and stamped Completion Certificate will be issued by the local authority

Why is a Completion Certificate important?

Buyers must be aware that buying or moving into a property that does not have a CC is not recommended as it is a risky investment choice. The civic authorities hold the power to slap heavy penalties on the developer, leading to stalling or cancellation of the registered layout of the project. In case the building is already occupied, residents may also have to face eviction in extreme cases.

Difference between an Occupancy Certificate and a Completion Certificate

While the CC examines and certifies a property for adherence to bye-laws, civic amenities, electricity, sanitation and other clearances, the OC certifies that a property is fit for possession by the buyers.

Iterating on the difference between the two documents, Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Homz, says, “Completion Certificate is just a reaffirmation that the building has been constructed as per the building bye-laws and the layout plan has been approved by various concerned authorities. Occupation Certificate signals that there is no violation of building construction norms, and thus, the structure is safe for occupants. As these documents are generally not required at the time of property registration, buyers may fail to realise their importance and overlook them. But for their own benefit and peace of mind, it is warranted that buyers of ready-to-move-in and under-construction properties check these documents before taking possession. This can help avoid unnecessary legal dispute or confrontation in the future.”