The Certificado Técnico de Ocupación (CTO) is the document in which the independent technical supervisor certifies, under oath, that a building was built according to the drawings, designs and technical, structural and geotechnical specifications approved in the permit, and according to the NSR-10 (Colombia's seismic-resistant building code). Law 1796 of 2016 requires it on projects that require technical supervision, and without it the building cannot be occupied.
When it is needed
In buildings that must have independent technical supervision: when the lot allows more than 2,000 m² to be built, whatever the use, and in those that require it because of their complexity. It applies to projects whose permit application was filed on or after July 1, 2017.
Who signs it, and when
The independent technical supervisor signs it when the foundation, the structure and the nonstructural elements are finished; finishes and decorative elements are not part of it. It is then recorded before a notary.
What the supervisor needs in order to sign it
To have followed the works. The certificate sums up what was checked during construction: the supervision reports, the concrete and steel test results, the release of every pour and the minutes. That is why supervision must start before the first pour: what was not supervised cannot be certified afterwards.
Common mistakes
Hiring the supervisor when the structure is already halfway up. Asking the contractor to supervise its own work, which the law does not allow. Losing the concrete cylinder results. Changing the design on site without the designer and the supervisor approving it.
See our technical supervision service, or check with the Law 1796 assistant whether your project needs it.
Frequently asked questions
Who signs the Certificado Técnico de Ocupación?
The independent technical supervisor, under oath, once the structure and the nonstructural elements are finished.
Can a building be occupied without a CTO?
No, on projects that require technical supervision under Law 1796.
