The expansion of the scope of self-certifi cation marks the intention of the
Malaysian Government to replace the Certifi cate of Fitness for Occupancy issued
by the local authorities (LA) with the Certifi cate of Completion and Compliance,
in the hope that the delivery system can be improved, the unnecessary layers
of bureaucracy can be cut and that the alleged rampant acts of gratifi cations
in the LA can be checked. This move can be viewed as a proactive step by the
government to reform the system of building control by providing an opportunity
for self-regulation by the construction industry. There are, however, unanswered
questions to be looked into in suffi cient depth as the new system is being
adopted. One fuzzy area is the question of independence of the ‘ principal
submitting person ’ empowered to self-certify completion and compliance
of works. Lessons from the UK can be learned in addressing the issue of the
independence of certifi cation. The doctrine of private certifi cation practised in
the UK is examined and recommended to be adapted in order to complement
the self-certifi cation doctrine. It is posited that the LA should still retain the role
of approving authorities.

• Self-certifi cation versus private certifi cation doctrines on the issuance of the Certifi cate of Completion and Compliance for buildings in Malaysia