What Is an Occupancy Permit (İskan) and How to Obtain It?

When construction is completed, the most important official document that legally confirms a building is ready for use is the occupancy permit. Also known as the “Building Usage Permit,” this certificate proves that the project has been built according to its license and is officially suitable for residence. For homebuyers and investors, an occupancy permit provides legal assurance and smooth progress in all related procedures.

The process involves technical inspections and municipal approval, requiring full compliance with regulations and documentation. Without an occupancy permit, restrictions arise in living arrangements, sales, credit use, and utility connections.

Authorities evaluate factors such as project compliance with zoning plans, infrastructure readiness (water, electricity, natural gas), and technical documentation before granting approval. Applications and inspections are carried out by local municipalities.

What Is an Occupancy Permit?

The occupancy permit is the official document issued by local authorities once construction is finalized, certifying that the building is ready to be used according to its intended purpose. It marks the transition of the building from “construction” status to “residential” or other legal usage.

It contains details such as:

• Total square meters, number of floors, and units
• Heating, water supply, and sewage systems
• Electricity, gas, and telecommunication installations
• Technical inspection and supervision reports

This document is crucial not only for the building itself but also for the long-term safety and confidence of its residents. A completed building without an occupancy permit is still considered legally unfinished.

How to Obtain an Occupancy Permit?

1. Completion According to License
The construction must be finished in compliance with its building license. Any deviations or missing infrastructure may delay approval.

2. Technical Reports & Inspections
Approvals are required from different authorities, including:

• Electrical and water system conformity
• Fire safety clearance
• Civil defense approval
• Telecommunications readiness
• Social security and structural safety reports

3. Municipal Application
All documents are submitted to the relevant municipal department. Officials then conduct on-site inspections. If adjustments are needed, corrections are requested.

4. Approval & Certificate Delivery
Once the criteria are fully met, the permit is issued, and the property is legally open for residence. At this stage, title deeds can also be converted from construction-based (floor easement) to residential ownership (floor ownership).

How to Check an Occupancy Permit?

Municipal Inquiry
By applying to the zoning department of the related municipality with property details, you can confirm the permit status.

Online Inquiry via e-Government
A more practical way is through the e-Government platform:

1. Log in at www.turkiye.gov.tr
2. Search for “Building Usage Permit Inquiry”
3. Instantly view the occupancy status of registered properties

If the property is not under your name, title deed information from the owner may be required.

What Does It Mean When a Home Has an Occupancy Permit?

A home with an occupancy permit is fully legalized and ready for residence:

• Ownership titles are converted to residential deeds
• Utility subscriptions are officially available
• Sales transactions proceed smoothly
• Bank loans and mortgages are possible

Such properties ensure legal security and add long term investment value. Especially in projects delivered by the best Construction Company, this process is managed seamlessly. At Yükselen Mimari, every housing project is delivered with occupancy permits completed, ensuring confidence and comfort for buyers.

What Happens If a Property Does Not Have an Occupancy Permit?

Properties without this permit face significant limitations:

• Banks do not provide housing loans
• Title deeds cannot be upgraded to full ownership
• Utility connections remain at costly construction tariffs
• Municipalities may apply fines or enforcement actions

This makes permit verification essential before any purchase. Choosing an occupancy-certified property ensures both security and financial advantage.

Is the Permit Granted Per Apartment or for the Entire Building?

The permit applies to the entire building, not to individual apartments. However, if parts of the building are completed earlier, municipalities may issue a “partial permit” for those sections. Ideally, the entire structure should be certified together.

Profitable Investments Begin with Occupancy Verification

Buying a home means investing in safety, legality, and long-term value. The occupancy permit is the foundation of that security.

In Antalya, Aksu, and Altıntaş, where the property market is growing rapidly, confirming the occupancy permit is a smart first step. At Yükselen Mimari, we oversee every stage from construction license to final occupancy approval delivering not only keys but also complete legal assurance.