A certificate of occupancy is a document issued
by
a local government agency or building department certifying
a building’s compliance with applicable building codes and other
laws, and indicating it to be in a condition suitable for occupancy. The
procedure and requirements for A certificate of occupancy is a document
issued by a local government agency or building department certifying a building’s
compliance with applicable building codes and other laws, and indicating it to
be in a condition suitable for occupancy. The procedure and requirements for
the certificate vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and on the type
of structure. Obtaining a certificate is generally required whenever:
• a new building is
constructed
• a building built for
one use is to be used for another (e.g., an industrial building converted for
residential use)
• occupancy of a
commercial or industrial building changes, or ownership of a commercial,
industrial, or multiple-family residential building changes
The purpose of obtaining a certificate of occupancy is to prove
that, according to the law, the house or building is in livable condition.
Generally, such a certificate is necessary to be able to occupy the structure
for everyday use, as well as to be able to sign a contract to sell the space
and close on a mortgage for the space.
A certificate of occupancy is evidence that the building complies
substantially with the plans and specifications that have been submitted to,
and approved by, the local authority. It complements a building permit—a
document that must be filed by the applicant with the local authority before
construction to indicate that the proposed construction will adhere to
ordinances, codes, and laws.
What is Temporary Occupation Certificate?
A temporary certificate of occupancy grants residents and building
owners all of the same rights as a certificate of occupancy, however it is only
for a temporary period of time. Temporary certificates of occupancy are
generally sought after and acquired when a building is still under minor
construction, but there is a certain section or number of floors that are
deemed to be habitable, and, upon issuance of TCO, can legally be occupied or
sold.
