Key takeaways
A completion certificate confirms a building was built as per the approved plan; an occupancy certificate confirms it is fit to occupy.
Names and procedures differ by state and authority, so ask what your local authority issues.
Living in or buying a building without the required certificate can affect loans, utility connections and resale.
Under RERA, the developer is responsible for obtaining these certificates and making them available to buyers.

"Is the OC received?" is one of the most important questions a buyer can ask about a new or recently completed building. Yet many buyers are not sure what the certificate is or how it differs from a completion certificate.

Completion certificate

A completion certificate (CC) is issued by the local planning or development authority after it inspects the building and is satisfied that construction has been completed as per the approved plan, building bye-laws and conditions of approval.

Occupancy certificate

An occupancy certificate (OC), sometimes called a partial or full occupation certificate, confirms that the building is fit for occupation. It is typically issued after checks on safety, sanitation and essential services. In some places, the completion and occupation certificates are combined or issued under different names.

Why the certificates matter

Area	Why it matters
Legality	Indicates the building complies with approvals
Home loans	Lenders may require it for completed homes or resale
Utilities	Permanent electricity, water and sewer connections may depend on it
Resale	Buyers and their lenders will ask for it
Tax and GST	A completion certificate before sale generally takes the sale out of GST
Safety	Indicates fire and structural checks were done

What RERA says

Under RERA, the promoter must obtain the completion or occupancy certificate from the competent authority and make it available to allottees individually or to the association of allottees. The agreement for sale should mention this obligation.

How to check

Ask the developer or seller for a copy of the certificate.
Verify it with the issuing authority or its online portal, where available.
Check that it covers your specific tower or block, not just the project.
Check whether it is partial (for some floors or towers) or full.
Compare the approved plan with what has actually been built.

Partial occupancy certificates

Large projects are often completed in phases, and authorities may issue partial certificates for specific towers. Make sure your tower is covered and understand which common facilities are complete.

If the certificate has not been issued

For an under-construction purchase, check the expected timeline in the RERA registration.
For a "ready" flat without the certificate, ask why. Missing certificates can indicate deviations from the plan.
If possession is offered without the certificate, take legal advice before accepting. Read builder delayed possession.

Before accepting possession, also use our possession snag list.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between OC and CC?

A completion certificate confirms the building was constructed as per approved plans. An occupancy certificate confirms the building is fit to be occupied. Some authorities combine them.

Can I get a home loan without an occupancy certificate?

Many lenders require it for completed or resale properties. Policies differ, so check with your lender.

Who is responsible for getting the occupancy certificate?

The developer or promoter is responsible for obtaining it from the competent authority and providing it to buyers or the association under RERA.

Is it safe to move into a flat without an OC?

It carries legal and practical risks, including difficulty with permanent utility connections and resale. Take legal advice.

Related HomeAcross guides

Official sources and further reading

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and procedures change; confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you act. Read our editorial policy.

Occupancy Certificate vs Completion Certificate: What Buyers Must Know

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