There is a common misperception around the process to obtain building permits (IMB) in Indonesia, which has led to the proliferation of brokering practices aimed to speed up the licensing process.
This misperception has led to the proliferation of brokering practices aimed at speeding up the licensing process, which actually have the opposite effect, and in turn create a negative impact on both buyers and sellers.
The purpose of an IMB in Indonesia is simple; to create and manage the designs and construction of buildings that are safe and comfortable, as well as being consistent with land allocations.
In Indonesia in general, and Bali specifically, many home owners are reluctant to take care of their building permits (IMB) because they do not fully understand licensing procedures and the myth of the many associated "costs" according to a recent article in Kompas.
What is an IMB for?
Referring to Law No. 28/2002 on building, an IMB aims to clarify the function of a building in accordance with zoning and other relevant regulations.
In addition to providing legal clarity, an IMB also aims to ensure the technical reliability of the building in terms of safety, health, comfort, and convenience.
The general requirements of an IMB's terms and conditions are governed by local regulations, which are formulated by each region. Regulation No. 36/2005 states local governments must determine requirements according to local social culture condition.
Generally, the IMB for residential houses must meet the administrative requirements that include personal identity or foundation, proof of ownership of land and building, proof of payment of Land and Building Taxes, City Plan of Decision (KRK) or currently known as Space Utilization Permit (IPR).
The KRK or Spatial Utilization Permit is a description that includes a region's allocation including settlement, areas of densely populated housing, services, trade, education and industry. It is important to remember each region has its own regulations regarding IMB requirements and this includes Bali.
Regional variations
Local governments through local regulations have the right to regulate the requirements and withdrawal of levies related to spatial and building arrangements. These special requirements are set out in respective local regulations.
For the DKI Jakarta area, for example, the specific requirements of residential houses include architectural drawings consisting of picture of the situation, floor plans, two way views, details of water catchment and rain wells, fences, and sewage treatment plants.
This Regulation refers to the Governor Decree No. 76/2000 on Procedures to Obtain an IMB, Building Use Permit and Feasibility of Using Buildings in the Special Capital Province of Jakarta.
Bali is different. For example, any building in Bali must reflect a strong Balinese cultural style of architecture and no buildings can be higher than the height of a palm tree, which is deemed to be 15.4 metres tall.
Wherever you decide to build or buy it pays to abide by the area's laws and regulations, which are generally not overly complicated and taking shortcuts to 'speed up' the process can often lead to delays in the long run.
Source: Kompas
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