It is the last approval in building something in NSW: the certificate that lets you move into or use a new building, or start a new use in an existing one.
When you need one
- Before you occupy or use a new building.
- Before you change the use of an existing building.
Who issues it
The principal certifier for the work: the council, a registered building surveyor or a registered certification company. The owner appoints the principal certifier before work starts. The builder is not allowed to appoint the certifier or influence the choice.
What it takes
- Inspections. The principal certifier carries out the mandatory inspections during the build.
- The final inspection. The certificate is issued after it, if every requirement is met.
- A construction certificate on time. If the work needed one and it was issued after work started, it is invalid and no occupation certificate will be issued: what a construction certificate is.
What it does and does not promise
It confirms the building is suitable to occupy for its building classification. It is not a guarantee of the quality of the fittings and finishes.
Staged work and apartments
- A partial occupation certificate can be issued for staged building work.
- Developers and builders of apartment buildings (class 2) must give 6 to 12 months’ notice before they apply.
Applications go through the NSW Planning Portal.
From Service NSW’s pages on applying for an occupation certificate and finding a principal certifier, and the NSW Planning Portal’s guide to starting a build.