The Occupation Certificate authorises the occupation and use of a new building or building section. For staged works, an Interim Occupation Certificate may be issued which allows you to occupy the completed part of the building.
Depending on the particular Occupation Certificate sought, the PCA must be satisfied the development meets various regulatory standards. These generally include that:
- A development consent is in force.
- The design and construction of the building is not inconsistent with the development consent.
- Any pre-conditions set out in the consent or requirements of planning agreements have been satisfied.
- A Construction Certificate has been issued.
- That the building is suitable for occupation (in accordance with its BCA classification).
The issue of the final Occupation Certificate is the last step in the formal DA and construction process (though there could be ongoing ‘operational’ conditions such as maintaining appropriate noise levels or landscape maintenance).