An Occupancy Certificate (OC) is one of the most critical documents in real estate. Issued by the local municipal corporation or development authority (like GHMC in Hyderabad), it certifies that:
- The building has been constructed according to the approved building plan
- All safety norms (fire, structural, electrical) are met
- The building is fit for human occupancy
- All necessary infrastructure (water, sewage, electricity) is in place
Why OC matters: - Legal requirement: You cannot legally occupy a building without an OC - Utility connections: Permanent water, electricity, and gas connections require OC - Property registration: Sale deeds for resale require OC verification - Bank loans: Banks may not approve home loans for properties without OC - Insurance: Property insurance claims may be rejected without valid OC - Resale value: Properties without OC have significantly lower resale value
In Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) or the relevant development authority issues OC after inspecting the completed building. The developer is responsible for obtaining OC before handing over possession.
Never take possession of an apartment without verifying that the OC has been obtained. Under RERA, developers cannot give possession without a valid OC.