Sellers need to obtain these important certificates before selling, says Seeff
Although most sellers are thoroughly aware that they need to spruce up their properties before selling it in order to get the best possible prices, many are not familiar with the fact that they also have to provide some compliance certificates before the property can be transferred. According to Steve van Wyk, Seeff’s Principal in Centurion, the certificates that are compulsory for sellers to obtain include Electrical, Electrical Fencing and Gas certificates. “Although an Entomologist certificate to certify that the property is free from wood-destroying insects is not compulsory for the Gauteng province, many purchasers today insist on one so it would be advisable to obtain one of these as well”. Van Wyk continues that an Electrical compliance certificate needs to be issued by a registered electrician certifying the property adheres to prescribed electrical installations and is safe to live in. An Electrical Fencing Certificate certifies that your fencing is not faulty and compliant and a Gas Compliance Certificate ensures that all gas fittings are safe and in proper working order. In addition to these certificates needed for the property transfer process, home insurance companies also require it should there be an accident and failure to produce one could result in the claim being rejected. “Many banks and Insurance Companies are now also asking for copies of the registered plans of the property as well as the occupation certificate before granting a bond or providing insurance. If you have a pool, lapa, carport, additional rooms or anything that is not on the plan it is recommended that you get a draftsman to redo and submit your plans for approval before you commence with selling,” concludes van Wyk.
