OC – Occupation Certificates

An Occupation Certificate (OC) is a legal document that authorizes the occupation and use of a new building or part of a building in compliance with all relevant building codes, zoning regulations, and development consents. Check Cert, or a similar accredited certifier, can assist in every stage of the OC process: conducting mandatory inspections, guiding compliance, and facilitating all necessary lodgements and uploads via the NSW Planning Portal.

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OUR ROLE

Check Cert’s Role in the Process

Guides clients through regulatory compliance, development approvals, and critical stage inspections.

Conducts necessary site meetings, compliance checks, and provides detailed inspection reports detailing actions needed for compliance.

Handles digital lodgement and uploads all required documentation to the NSW Planning Portal, streamlining the approval process and supporting clients throughout.

Offers continued advice and practical solutions, ensuring the process is efficient and meets all legislative requirements.

WHAT IS AN OC

What is an Occupation Certificate?

An Occupation Certificate gives official permission to use or occupy a building, confirming it has been constructed safely and in accordance with approved plans and building codes. It is the final step in the development and construction process, signaling that the building meets regulatory standards and is suitable for use.

HOW TO OBTAIN

How to Obtain an OC

Check Cert provides expert guidance through every stage of obtaining a Construction Certificate. Their services usually include:

The owner or developer must appoint a Principal Certifier—often through a private certifier or the local council—before construction begins.

The Principal Certifier (PC) conducts mandatory stage inspections and ensures that all works comply with the Building Code of Australia and development consent.

Upon completion, the PC reviews compliance documents, performs final inspections, and if compliant, issues the Occupation Certificate.

Applications for the OC are submitted online, typically via the NSW Planning Portal, along with all required documents such as compliance certificates, fire safety certificates, and development consent approvals.

PORTAL

Planning Portal Uploads and Lodgements

The NSW Planning Portal enables users to lodge their OC applications online as either standalone applications or in connection with existing development applications.

Certifiers manage the preparation and upload of all necessary supporting documents, ensuring regulatory compliance and a smooth approval process.

For reliable certification and streamlined digital lodgement, accredited certifiers and firms like Check Cert are instrumental in guiding applicants through every step of the occupation certificate process.