Half of the buildings in Mumbai lack OC

An occupation certification is a critical document issued by the municipal corporation to a builder once the building is complete. This document is issued to certify that the building is compliant with the approved drawings of the plan, and has followed the building codes and laws. Hence, only a building constructed according to approved norms can obtain the occupation certificate. Without an OC, the building can be termed illegal.

The certificate plays a key role if the builder expects the building to be occupied by tenants and buyers. Buildings without an OC find it hard to get sanitary and water connection. Banks to ask for a building's OC before they disburse loan to a potential customer. The Bombay High Court also has termed it illegal to move into a building, which doesn't have an OC.

No civic amenity will be provided to the building without the OC. Moreover, if you are owner of an apartment, which does not have an occupancy certificate, you will face challenges in resealing the property. Therefore, buyers should demand the builder to provide them a copy of the occupancy certificate before taking the possession of the apartment.