If you’re selling a property, applying for a bond, or just want peace of mind that your home’s wiring is safe, you’ll need an Electrical Certificate of Compliance (COC). Here’s exactly how the process works, from finding the right electrician to keeping your certificate safe once it’s issued.
1. Choose a registered and qualified electrician
Only a person registered with the Department of Labour and holding a valid wireman’s license may legally issue a COC. Anyone without this registration cannot issue a valid certificate, no matter how competent they seem.
I have a masters license and I am registered with the Department of Labour and the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA). Get in touch to book an inspection.
2. Book an inspection
If the inspection turns up faults, non-compliant wiring, or outdated work, I’ll provide a quote to bring the installation up to standard. This step is compulsory. A COC cannot legally be issued until the faults have been corrected, so it’s worth budgeting for the possibility of repairs, particularly in older properties.
3. Repair any faults found
Should the inspection reveal any faults in the installation, the electrician will provide a quotation for repairs. It is crucial and compulsory to resolve any electrical faults before the certificate can be issued.
4. Receive your certificate
Once the property passes inspection, I’ll invoice you and issue the certificate once payment has been made. It will include my name and registration details, the date of inspection, and specific details about the property and its electrical installation. If no faults are found, this can often be done on the same day as the inspection.
5. Keep it safe
A COC has no expiry date, but it needs to be reissued if you sell the property and the existing certificate is older than two years, or if any electrical additions or alterations have been made since it was issued. Keep wear and tear in mind as well. Insurers and bond originators may also ask to see it. Store a digital copy somewhere easy to find, since losing the original means starting the inspection process again from scratch.
Areas in Johannesburg we cover: Roodepoort, Randburg, Krugersdorp, Northwold, Radiokop, Helderkruin, Wilgeheuwel, Weltevreden Park, Roodekrans, Strubensvalley, Ferndale and surrounds.
Find out how to know if your electrical certificate of compliance is valid.