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    Electrical COC Requirements Explained: Cost, Validity and What Fails

    What an Electrical Certificate of Compliance is, when you legally need one, how long it lasts, what it costs, and the common faults that fail an inspection.

    20 May 2026 6 min read
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    If you are selling, insuring or altering a property, the Electrical Certificate of Compliance is the document that proves the installation is safe and legal. Here is exactly what it is, when you need one, and what trips people up.

    What is an Electrical COC?

    An Electrical Certificate of Compliance certifies that the fixed electrical installation meets SANS 10142 safety standards. It can only be issued by a registered person after a proper inspection — see our guide on when you need an electrical COC.

    When you legally need one

    • Selling or transferring a property (the seller must provide a valid COC)
    • After significant electrical work or alterations to the installation
    • Often required by insurers to honour a claim

    How long it lasts

    A COC is generally valid for two years, as long as no electrical work has been done since. Any changes to the installation void it and require a new certificate.

    What it costs

    The inspection and certificate start modestly, but the real variable is remedial work — bringing non-compliances up to standard before the certificate can be issued. We quote the repairs in writing first.

    What commonly fails

    No or faulty earth-leakage, exposed wiring, an outdated DB board, missing earthing and bonding, and DIY work are the usual culprits. We find and fix them with compliance repairs, then issue the COC.

    Get it sorted before it costs you a sale

    We inspect, quote, fix and certify across Sandton, Midrand and the East Rand. Call 082 886 9119 — see electrical services.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You legally need a valid Electrical Certificate of Compliance when selling or transferring a property, and many insurers require one for a claim. A new COC is also needed after significant electrical work or a change of the installation. It must be issued by a registered person to SANS 10142.

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