certificate - building


A statutory or formal professional report stating that the subject property meets a certain and necessary standard. For example, a survey certificate is required for all structures before construction proceeds above ground level to show that the structure does not encroach onto neighbouring lands or easements. When the building nears completion, the builder should ensure that the plumbing and electrical work has been certified by the relevant authorities. In some cases the owner will be required to submit a certificate from a practising structural engineer certifying that the completed building is structurally sound.