SLF (Certificate of Feasibility) in Indonesia: What It Is and How to Get One in 2025



In Indonesia, every building that has completed construction and is ready for use—whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial—must have a legal document known as the SLF (Sertifikat Laik Fungsi). Without this certificate, the building is not legally recognized as suitable for occupancy or operation. For property owners, developers, and foreign investors in Bali and across Indonesia, understanding the SLF and securing it properly is crucial.
At The Bali Lawyer, we specialize in helping clients navigate building regulations and permits, including the SLF, ensuring that their properties comply with all Indonesian laws. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the SLF: what it is, who needs it, how to get it, and why it’s essential in 2025.
What Is an SLF (Sertifikat Laik Fungsi)?
SLF stands for Sertifikat Laik Fungsi, or Certificate of Feasibility, a legal document issued by local governments in Indonesia that declares a building is safe, functional, and suitable for use. The SLF confirms that the building:
Has been constructed in accordance with its approved PBG (Building Approval)
Meets all technical, structural, environmental, and spatial requirements
Is compliant with the latest safety and occupancy standards
The SLF replaces final inspection reports and serves as official confirmation that a building is habitable or fit for commercial operation.
Why Is the SLF Important?
Owning a property in Bali or anywhere in Indonesia without an SLF exposes you to serious risks. You may not be allowed to use the building legally, face delays in business licensing, or even penalties. Here’s why having an SLF is non-negotiable:
Legal Use of the Building: Without it, you cannot legally occupy or operate the property.
Business License Applications: You can’t get operational licenses (like NIB or TDUP) for commercial use without an SLF.
Electricity & Water Connections: Utility companies may require SLF before connecting services.
Insurance Coverage: Many insurers require an SLF for property insurance to be valid.
Selling or Leasing: Buyers and tenants often demand an SLF as part of due diligence.
Who Needs an SLF?
Anyone who owns or manages a building in Indonesia needs an SLF. This includes:
Private homeowners
Villa and guesthouse operators
Hotel and resort owners
Commercial building developers
Restaurants, cafes, and retail shops
Industrial property managers
Whether you are an Indonesian citizen or a foreigner (individual or corporate), the SLF requirement applies to all building types, including villas, rumah kos, apartments, hotels, shops, offices, and warehouses.
When Do You Need to Get an SLF?
You must apply for an SLF after the construction is completed and before the building is used. If your building was completed in earlier years but never received an SLF, you are still legally obligated to obtain one now.
You are also required to renew the SLF periodically:
Every 5 years for residential buildings
Every 10 years for commercial and public buildings
SLF vs. PBG: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between PBG and SLF is critical:
Requirement | PBG (Building Approval) | SLF (Certificate of Feasibility) |
---|---|---|
Issued When | Before construction | After construction |
Purpose | Approves design, structure, and zoning | Confirms building is usable and safe |
Needed For | Starting construction | Occupying or operating the building |
Legal Consequences of Not Having an SLF
Failing to secure an SLF can result in:
Fines and sanctions from local government authorities
Eviction or sealing of the property
Problems with leasing or selling
Denial of business permits
Invalid insurance policies
Operating a building without an SLF is considered a legal violation under national construction and spatial planning laws.
SLF Application Requirements in 2025
To apply for an SLF, you must provide a complete and accurate set of documents. These typically include:
Approved PBG (Persetujuan Bangunan Gedung)
As-Built Drawings (architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing)
Construction Completion Report
Inspection Results from licensed consultants or engineers
Statement of Responsibility from supervising consultants
Photos and documentation of completed work
Fire Safety Certificate (if applicable)
Environmental Compliance Report
Utility Connection Approvals
Building Ownership Documents
All documents must be submitted to the relevant local authorities—usually the Dinas PUPR or DPMPTSP in your region.
How to Apply for an SLF in Indonesia or Bali
Here is the simplified step-by-step process to obtain an SLF in 2025:
Step 1: Hire a Licensed Building Inspector or Consultant
The law requires an independent technical inspection of the completed building by a certified engineer or consultant to verify safety and compliance.
Step 2: Prepare Your SLF Application Documents
Gather all the required documents, including building plans, inspection reports, and utility approvals.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Your application is submitted to the SIMBG (Sistem Informasi Manajemen Bangunan Gedung) system or to the regional licensing office (Dinas PUPR).
Step 4: Site Inspection by Government
Authorities may conduct an on-site inspection to verify the building matches submitted documentation and complies with regulations.
Step 5: Issuance of SLF
If your application is approved, the SLF is issued and registered under your name. You can now legally occupy or operate your property.
Estimated Timeline for SLF Processing
Document preparation: 2–4 weeks
Application review and inspection: 2–6 weeks
SLF issuance: 1–2 weeks after inspection
Total estimated time: 4–12 weeks, depending on building complexity and local government responsiveness.
Common Issues That Delay SLF Issuance
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
Building changes made during construction that don’t match approved PBG
Non-compliance with zoning, fire safety, or environmental laws
Lack of as-built drawings or professional supervision
Unauthorized use of the building before SLF is granted
To avoid these issues, work with experienced legal and construction professionals from the beginning of your project.
How Foreigners Can Get an SLF in Bali
Foreign nationals often own property in Bali through PT PMA companies or leasehold arrangements. Regardless of ownership structure, you must still obtain an SLF. Here’s what foreign investors should do:
Ensure the building was constructed under a valid PBG
Engage a certified local architect or inspector
Work with legal professionals fluent in both Bahasa Indonesia and English
Confirm your land title, lease, and PBG match current construction
Can You Get an SLF for an Existing Building?
Yes. If your building is already constructed but has never received an SLF, you must apply for a retrospective SLF. This process involves a more detailed inspection, including:
Structural analysis
Utility assessments
Retrofitting recommendations (if any)
Our legal team can help you regularize older properties and ensure they comply with current standards.
SLF Renewal and Validity Period
SLFs must be renewed periodically depending on the building type:
Residential buildings: every 5 years
Commercial buildings: every 10 years
Renewal requires another inspection to confirm continued compliance with regulations. It is critical to keep your SLF updated to avoid penalties or disruption in operations.
Why Choose The Bali Lawyer for SLF Assistance?
Applying for an SLF can be a complex and technical process, especially for foreign property owners unfamiliar with Indonesian bureaucracy. At The Bali Lawyer, we offer full legal support for obtaining and renewing SLFs across Bali and Indonesia.
Our services include:
SLF eligibility assessment
Document preparation and validation
Coordination with architects, engineers, and inspectors
Representation during inspections
Online and in-person application submissions
Legal advisory for land use, zoning, and compliance
We simplify the process, reduce your risks, and help you avoid delays.
Final Tips for SLF Success
Always get your PBG approved before construction
Use licensed professionals for every stage
Keep detailed documentation during construction
Don’t operate your building before getting the SLF
Plan ahead—start your SLF application before the building is completed
Don’t let missing legal documents put your property investment at risk. Get your SLF the right way, the legal way, with the help of Bali’s trusted legal team.
HUBUNGI KAMI UNTUK KONSULTASI GRATIS +6287864077650