How to start a day-care centre

Looking to start a day-care centre? Follow our steps below to make sure it's set up correctly and you're fully compliant.

Step 1: Register your company Your business should be registered as a (Pty) Ltd at the CIPC department.

Step 2: COID Your day-care centre should be registered at the workmen's compensation fund to ensure that your employees are covered for any injuries. You will receive a letter of good standing from the COID department which is a requirement when registering as an ECD facility.

Step 3: Register as an ECD facility Register your company at your local department of social development or municipal office as an early childhood development (ECD) facility.

Here are a few insider tips you should take note of when registering as an ECD facility:

1. You must submit a business plan when registering as an ECD facility that contains the following:
   • Business hours
   • Fee structure
   • Day-care plan
   • Staff composition
   • Disciplinary policy
2. The department will also request the following documents:
   • COR 14.3 registration certificate
   • SARS tax clearance certificate (pin)
   • Letter of good standing
   • All of the director’s certified ID copies
3. Make sure your building plans are up to date as they will be reviewed by the department of social development / local municipality.
4. A Health certificate will be required by the department of social development / local municipality.
5. The Department of Social Development regularly sends officials to assess your premises.