What is Act 16 and Why is it Important?

What is Act 16 and Why is it Important?

Act 16 is a crucial document for any property built after the year 2000. It certifies that construction is complete and the building is officially approved for use. Issued by the chief architect or the mayor of the municipality, Act 16 changes the building’s status from “under construction” to “ready for occupancy.”

What Does the Absence of Act 16 Mean?

Not having Act 16 can lead to significant inconveniences for property owners, some of which are:

  • Inability to sign contracts with water and electricity providers.
  • Reliance on industrial electricity, which is much more expensive.

While you can technically live in a property without Act 16, the lack of this document creates some limitations for comfortable living.

How to Check if a Property Has Act 16?

If you’re unsure whether a property has Act 16, you can verify this with the National Construction Control Directorate (NCCD).

How is Act 16 Issued?

The process of obtaining Act 16 involves:

  • Submitting a written request by the property owner or an authorized representative.
  • Providing necessary documents, such as:
    • Construction permit
    • Protocols for construction lines and levels
    • Documents from the cadaster
    • Agreements with utility companies for network connections
    • Final report from the construction supervision authority

We hope this information is helpful! Browse properties with Act 16 at IBG Real Estates.

Read more at: ibgrealestates.com

author avatar
Desi Dimitrova

As a Co-Founder and Real Estate Specialist at IBG Real Estates Ltd., I have proudly served Bulgaria’s residential property market since 2007. With a passion for helping people find their ideal homes, I bring extensive knowledge, a personalized approach, and a commitment to making each real estate experience seamless and rewarding.
My goal is to support clients every step of the way, offering insights and guidance tailored to their unique needs. At IBG Real Estates, trust and dedication are the cornerstones of our service, and I’m honored to bring this vision to life for each of our clients.

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