What is covered?
The certificate covers the following aspects of the water supply installation:
It is checked that the hot water geyser is plumbed correctly and that the installation complies with South African National Standard (SANS) 10252 and 10254.
It is verified that the water pipes and terminal fittings are stable and properly saddled.
Checks that stormwater is not discharged into the sewer system.
It is checked that there is no cross-connection between any grey water, groundwater and the potable water supply.
It is checked that there is a private isolating valve installed and functioning correctly, and that there is a stop-tap installed on the water meter.
It is checked that the water meter registers use and is stationary when all taps are closed on the property. With this method it can be identified if the water installation leaks.
It is checked that there are no leaks of the terminal water fittings when they are in the OFF position and that they are fitted in a stable position.
What is NOT covered?
There is often confusion about what is covered, and what not. In short, the COC covers the water supply system and the termination thereof. It does not include:
Sinks, toilets and tubs and any cracks, leaks, discoloration or damage thereof.
Broken toilet flush handles.
Toilet, basin, bath or shower leaking wastewater.
Any water disposal pipes leading from sinks, showers, bathtubs or appliances to the outside.
Blocked drains are not covered by the water COC.
The condition of the fittings is not checked. They are only required to hold water when in the OFF position.
Leaking irrigation or swimming pool installations are not part of the water COC.
Any taps, fittings or pipes installed on external Water Tanks that are not connected to the main water installation.
Low water pressure, water discoloration or water quality are also not criteria of the certification.
Who Pays?
The water certificate of compliance and all repairs associated with the certification, are payable by the seller and certificate to be issued before transfer.
6 Months
Validity of Water COC after issue, provided that no changes or amendments have been made to the installation since issue.
Cost
Please ask your qualified inspector in advance. The inspection fee is usually mid-to upper three figures, and the repair cost dependent on repairs and changes required.
When to inspect?
Usually the compliance certificates are done once an offer to purchase has been accepted, and the suspensive conditions have been met. Where possible, we recommend having the initial inspection done before marketing the property in order to obtain the quote for the repairs that will be needed for the certification. This enables sellers to factor in these costs in their financial planning and when considering offers on their property.
Good to know
Although the industry specifications for the issue of a valid COC are the same, in some cases it is worth the time and money to shop around. If the seller should decide to get a second plumber in to inspect and quote for the certification, the seller must be aware that he'll be liable to pay both inspection fees.
Who arranges inspection?
Your trusted agent can arrange for an inspector to contact you for an inspection appointment. We also advise our clients in this regard. Where sellers already work with trusted tradesmen, they can also arrange the certification themselves. Thirdly, the conveyancing attorneys can also arrange this for the seller.