Why a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) Is Critical for Homeowners, Estate Agents, and Attorneys

🏡 Why a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) Is Critical for Homeowners, Estate Agents, and Attorneys

When a property changes hands—whether through sale, lease, inheritance, or transfer—the safety and legality of its electrical installation is not just a technical matter; it’s a legal requirement. Yet, many consumers, estate agents, and even attorneys overlook the crucial role that a valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC) plays in ensuring peace of mind, legal protection, and safety.

What is a CoC?

A Certificate of Compliance is a document that verifies that the electrical installation in a property meets the minimum safety standards as laid out in SANS 10142-1 and that the work was inspected and tested by a Registered Person.

It must be:

• Issued by a qualified, registered electrician.

• Valid indefinitely, as long as no changes have been made to the electrical installation.

• If any part of the installation is modified or extended, a supplementary CoC must be issued for that work. The original CoC remains valid for the rest of the installation.

⚖️ Why It Matters — Especially in Property Transfers

1. Legal Requirement (OHS Act, Electrical Installation Regulations)
   The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires a valid CoC for any property transfer. Attorneys and estate agents should ensure this document is obtained before registration of transfer.

2. Safety and Peace of Mind
   A CoC confirms that the installation was tested and found safe. This prevents potential shock hazards, fire risks, or faulty wiring issues for the new owner.

3. Protects All Parties from Liability
   Insurers can reject claims after an incident if the property did not have a valid CoC. Buyers may also have legal recourse against sellers, estate agents, or attorneys if this critical document is overlooked.

4. Helps Avoid Fraud and Costly Surprises
   Unfortunately, fraudulent or improperly issued CoCs are still common. Verifying the CoC protects the buyer from inheriting unsafe or illegal installations.

🔍 What to Look for When Receiving a CoC

Whether you're a buyer, seller, agent, or attorney, these checkpoints can help you assess the validity and reliability of a CoC:

1. ✅ Electrician’s Registration

   • The person issuing the CoC must be registered with the Department of Employment and Labour.

   • Always verify their credentials via the Department’s database or contact a reputable training centre like TDMI for guidance.

2. ✅ Date of Issue

   • Although a CoC does not expire, when it comes to property transfers, it must not be older than 2 years.

   • Some estate agents or legal teams may even insist on a CoC no older than 6 months to ensure relevance and accuracy.

3. ✅ Coverage of the Entire Installation

   • Confirm that the CoC covers the whole installation: DB board, plugs, lights, geyser, stove, outbuildings, etc.

   • If it’s only for a portion of the installation, it’s not sufficient for property transfer.

4. ✅ Annexure Pages Must Be Attached

   • These include test results and circuit details. A CoC without annexures is incomplete and not valid.

5. ✅ No Pre-filled or Copied Documents

   • Every CoC must be issued after a proper on-site inspection and testing. If it looks like it was printed in advance, that’s a red flag.

6. ✅ Professional Presentation

   • The document should be legible, complete, and accurate, with no blank sections or inconsistencies in addresses and details.

7. ✅ Supplementary CoCs for Any Changes

   • If electrical work was done after the original CoC, a supplementary CoC must accompany the original. Both should be kept together.

🛡️ Protecting Yourself and Your Clients

• Buyers: Request the CoC early in the process and verify that it covers the full installation.

• Sellers: Don’t leave the CoC to the last minute. Use a reputable registered electrician who provides full documentation.

• Estate Agents: Make the CoC part of your pre-sale checklist, and if possible, request an updated one not older than 6 months.

• Attorneys: Ensure the CoC is valid and correctly attached to the deed of sale before lodging for registration.

⚠️ It’s Not Just a Piece of Paper—It’s a Legal Shield

A valid CoC is your proof of compliance, a record of safety, and in many ways, your first line of defense if things go wrong. Don’t accept shortcuts or incomplete documentation.

Need help verifying a CoC or training your team on compliance matters?
Contact TDMI Training at 📞 060 687 9580 or visit 🌐 www.tdmi.co.za for expert assistance.