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Chicago FPC Service - How to order, Why? 

An image guide for the Chicago Water Certification

November 12, 2024

How to order?

The order process has been simplified. All that is needed to open an order is the information from a real estate contract or Title Commitment and select the Order button on the home page. And we will manage and get your FPC into ready status for your closing.

Why?

Full Payment Certificate (FPC) is issued by the Department of Finance in conjunction with the Chicago Water Department to verify that utilities are paid current before any real estate can be transferred. The City of Chicago Water Certification requires a FPC Certificate before issuing the City of Chicago transfer stamps, without the Chicago municipal transfer stamps the Cook County Recorder will not record the real estate transfer. 

The FPC is required for even for exempt transfers. If the Water Certification is not obtained, “both the transferor and the transferee will be jointly and severally liable for any outstanding utility charges, penalties, and applicable fees that have accrued to the account.”