What is the difference between an occupancy certificate and a completion certificate for my apartment in Jalandhar under state law?

Detailed Legal Analysis

A completion certificate confirms that the building is constructed as per the sanctioned plan, while an occupancy certificate authorises its use for habitation under Punjab Rent Control Act 1995. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that occupying a building without an occupancy certificate is illegal and renders utility connections liable to disconnection.

You must apply to the municipal authority in Jalandhar with the completion report, structural stability certificate and fire NOC. The authority inspects the premises and issues the certificate if deviations are within permissible limits.

Banks usually insist on the occupancy certificate before disbursing home loans for resale transactions. Builders who delay these certificates can be prosecuted under the real estate regulatory statute.

Water and electricity connections for permanent use are released only after the occupancy certificate is produced.