Issuance of Building Compliance Certificate in the Saudi Market: Importance, Requirements, and Procedures

The construction and building sector in Saudi Arabia is witnessing significant growth, with increasing attention being paid to the quality of projects and their compliance with local and international standards. The issuance of a building compliance certificate is one of the most important documents that every property owner or real estate developer must seek to obtain, ensuring that the building adheres to the approved specifications and standards in the Kingdom. In this article, we will discuss the importance of the building compliance certificate in the Saudi market, how to obtain it, the relevant authorities, and the necessary procedures and requirements for acquiring it.

What is a Building Compliance Certificate?

A building compliance certificate is an official document issued by relevant authorities, such as the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) or local municipalities, confirming that the building has been constructed in accordance with the approved technical, engineering, and construction standards. The purpose of this certificate is to ensure the safety of buildings and their compliance with design and engineering regulations, including the use of building materials that meet the required specifications.

The Importance of the Building Compliance Certificate in the Saudi Market

The building compliance certificate is a critical element in ensuring the quality and safety of buildings in the Saudi market. It offers several benefits, including:

1. Ensuring Quality Construction: The compliance certificate guarantees that the building has been constructed according to the highest engineering and design standards.

2. Legal Compliance: The certificate is one of the essential documents required by local authorities to issue building or modification permits.

3. Protecting the Rights of Owners and Investors: By ensuring that the building meets the required standards, the certificate helps protect owners and investors from the risks associated with unsafe or incorrect designs.

4. Increasing Property Value: Properties that have a compliance certificate tend to have a good reputation in the market, increasing their market value when sold or rented.

5. Ensuring Environmental Compliance: The certificate ensures that the building complies with environmental standards, helping reduce the negative environmental impact of real estate projects.

Authorities Responsible for Issuing the Building Compliance Certificate

Several official authorities in Saudi Arabia are responsible for issuing the building compliance certificate, including:

• The Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO): This organization is responsible for technical standards and regulations related to construction, and it issues the certificate after reviewing the project.

• Local Municipalities: Some local municipalities in Saudi cities may also be involved in issuing the certificate after verifying the building's compliance with engineering standards.

• Certified Engineering Consulting Offices: In some cases, certified engineering consulting offices may assist in providing the necessary engineering reports to obtain the certificate.

Essential Requirements for Obtaining the Building Compliance Certificate

To obtain a building compliance certificate, several essential requirements must be met, including:

1. Approved Blueprints: The engineering blueprints of the building, which have been approved by the relevant authorities, must be submitted.

2. Laboratory Tests: Laboratory tests should be conducted on construction materials such as concrete and steel to ensure they meet the required standards.

3. Approved Design: The overall design of the building must comply with engineering requirements, including dimensions and materials used.

4. Technical Reports: Technical reports confirming that the building has been constructed according to approved specifications must be provided.

5. Approval of Materials: The materials used in construction must meet the Saudi standards, such as the SASO quality mark.

Steps to Obtain the Building Compliance Certificate

1. Online Registration: The owner or contractor registers the project in the approved online service platforms, such as the Sabar or Balady platforms.

2. Submission of Documents and Blueprints: All required documents, including engineering blueprints and laboratory test reports, must be submitted.

3. Technical Review: The submitted documents are reviewed by experts to assess the building's compliance with standards.

4. Field Inspection: Authorized inspectors may visit the site to verify that the construction complies with the approved plans and specifications.

5. Issuance of Certificate: Once the review is complete and compliance is confirmed, the building compliance certificate is issued and documented.

Fees and Timeframe for Obtaining the Certificate

The fees and time required to obtain a building compliance certificate vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. For small projects, the fees may range from 5,000 to 15,000 SAR, while for larger projects, fees could exceed 50,000 SAR. The time required also varies based on the project size; small projects may take between 30 to 45 days, while larger projects may take up to 90 days or more.

Tips for Expediting the Building Compliance Certificate Process

1. Ensure Complete Documentation: Before applying for the certificate, make sure all documents and blueprints are complete and approved.

2. Collaborate with Certified Laboratories: Work with accredited laboratories to conduct tests and ensure quick delivery of reports.

3. Coordinate with Relevant Authorities: Maintain constant communication with government bodies and certified consultants to speed up the process.

4. Plan Early: Start the registration and testing process early in the project to avoid delays.

Conclusion

Issuing a building compliance certificate in the Saudi market is a vital step for every real estate developer or property owner who wants to ensure the quality of their building and compliance with the highest engineering standards. By adhering to the approved standards and obtaining this certificate, owners and investors can ensure the safety and legality of their projects, while also increasing their market value. With clear procedures and guidelines in place, obtaining the building compliance certificate can be a smooth and beneficial process for all parties involved.