When buying a home, checking certain documents is important to ensure the project's legitimacy. Key documents include the title deed, building approval plan among others. These documents confirm that the property is legally approved and safe to live in. Another crucial document is the Partial Occupancy Certificate, which shows that the building meets all legal and safety requirements.
A Partial Occupancy Certificate (OC) is issued when only some parts of the building are complete and approved for living. While it allows you to occupy specific areas, the entire project isn't yet finished. Homebuyers can trust a Partial OC, as ongoing construction and pending approvals might still exist.
In this article, we will explore more about Partial Occupancy Certificates and guidelines for buyers before moving into a project with Partial OC.
Is it okay to buy a house with Partial OC?
Buying a house with a Partial Occupancy Certificate (OC) can be risky. A Partial OC means that only some parts of the building are approved for living, while others may still be under construction or awaiting approvals. This can lead to issues like incomplete amenities, legal troubles, or safety concerns. Therefore, it's best to wait for the Full Occupancy Certificate, which ensures the entire building is safe and legally approved.
What is the validity of the Partial Occupancy Certificate?
A Partial Occupancy Certificate (OC) is valid only until the entire project is completed and the authorities issue an occupancy certificate for the whole project. This means that the partial certificate of occupancy allows you to live in specific parts of the building that are compatible for living. However, it's a temporary approval. Once the construction is finished, a final OC gets issued to ensure legitimacy and safety standards.
Also read: All you need to know about title deed of a property
Can the builder charge maintenance with Partial OC?
According to RERA, a builder can only charge maintenance fees once the buyer takes possession of the apartment. Therefore, with a Partial Occupancy Certificate (OC) for construction, the builder cannot claim maintenance charges because the project is not fully completed. The buyer should only be asked to pay for maintenance once all facilities are finished and the Final OC is issued. This ensures buyers only pay for a fully functional and legally approved property.
In conclusion, a Partial Occupancy Certificate (OC) allows limited habitation and certain risks. It is only valid until the entire project is completed and the OC is issued. However, buyers are protected by regulations, which prevent builders from charging maintenance fees until the project is fully complete. Generally, waiting for the final OC before buying or moving into a project is recommended. For better clarity, always talk to an expert before investing in real estate projects, whether they have OC or Partial OC.
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