The Abu Dhabi government has introduced the Building Occupancy and Legalisation Certificate Programme aimed at improving the quality and safety of buildings while enhancing their value.
This initiative focuses on ensuring regulatory compliance, leading to increased real estate value and safeguarding long-term investments. By following precautionary maintenance schedules, buildings will experience a longer design life, reducing emergency repair costs and protecting property investments.
Residents’ quality of life is set to improve as the programme promotes the enforcement of construction regulations and fosters a transparent legal environment, streamlining real estate transactions. It also encourages sustainable construction practices and reduces buildings’ environmental impact.
The programme will roll out in three phases, beginning with the issuance of a Conditional Occupancy Certificate. This phase prioritises compliance with key safety standards, such as fire safety, gas installation, structural integrity, elevator safety, and child protection measures. Buildings will be allowed to transition to full compliance gradually, exempting some standards initially.
Existing residential villas are excluded from full occupancy requirements unless their design life has been exceeded and they pose safety risks. This flexible approach ensures that each property’s unique challenges are addressed effectively.
