Planning Authority and BOV sign agreement to streamline property compliance checks

The Planning Authority and Bank of Valletta have signed a new agreement allowing the bank to rely directly on compliance certificates issued by the authority, in a move aimed at simplifying property due diligence and reducing administrative burdens, a government statement said.

The agreement establishes a compliance framework for property, through which Compliance Certificates issued by the authority will be recognised and used by the bank.

Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri presided over the signing of the agreement, which strengthens collaboration between the two entities and improves efficiency in verifying planning compliance during property due diligence and credit assessment processes.

The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a clear operational framework guiding how Compliance Certificates issued by the Planning Authority under Article 102 of the Development Planning Act (Chapter 552) will be recognised and used by Bank of Valletta.

The statement said that under the agreement, the bank may fully rely on Compliance Certificates issued by the Planning Authority within the previous three months, providing greater clarity to clients and reducing the need to submit additional planning documentation unless required by law.

A valid Compliance Certificate confirms that a property is structurally complete and compliant with approved development permits and plans, subject to any declared exemptions or concessions.

Camilleri said that the agreement marks another step towards strengthening Malta’s planning and property ecosystem.

He added that enhanced collaboration between the Planning Authority and Bank of Valletta will make processes clearer, more efficient and more accessible to the public.

To support implementation, the Planning Authority will provide written clarifications when necessary and grant the bank secure digital access to view Compliance Certificates and related documents online.

The statement said that this eliminates the need for clients to submit physical copies and improves consistency and transparency.

CEO of Bank of Valletta Kenneth Farrugia said that the agreement creates a clear framework for collaboration, adding that clients will benefit from a simpler and more efficient process.

Chief Operations Officer Ernest Agius spoke of the digital aspect of the agreement, noting that the bank will have access to Compliance Certificates and related documentation through a dedicated Planning Authority portal, in line with the bank’s digital strategy and sustainability goals.

Executive Chairman of the Planning Authority Johann Buttigieg said that the agreement represents a significant step forward in how planning compliance information is used, reducing unnecessary barriers while ensuring planning standards are upheld.

The agreement does not amend any statutory obligations but introduces a practical structure aimed at benefiting clients, professionals and the wider property sector, the statement said.

Both the Planning Authority and Bank of Valletta said they look forward to implementing the agreement and strengthening cooperation to improve service quality across the sector.

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