Who Is Responsible For Certificate Of Occupancy?

Who Is Responsible For Certificate Of Occupancy?

The responsibility for obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) typically falls on the owner of the property or the landlord. However, the terms of the lease may require both the tenant and the property owner to obtain the certificate.

In some cases, the general contractor is responsible for obtaining a CO.

A CO is a legal document that certifies a building is safe and ready to be used, by verifying the structure complies with local building codes, usage regulations, and safety requirements.

It is issued by local building authorities, usually government agencies or building departments.

In the context of a home sale transaction, the seller is usually responsible for obtaining the CO and bearing the cost. This is because the buyer requires a CO for any buildings they want to purchase before moving forward with their mortgage process.

However, the requirements for a CO can vary based on local regulations. Some local regulations require a CO any time a home changes hands, whether it is sold to a new owner or rented to a new tenant

Others don’t issue COs at all for residential properties. It’s important to note that it is illegal to proceed with a building or lease without a CO.

If you don’t have it, you may have to pay financial penalties for each day that construction work is done on the property. Additionally, if an accident occurs due to instability in the structure, the owner or holder of the place can be sued.

Therefore, it’s crucial to check with your local building or zoning authority to ensure you’re following regulations regarding the CO.

The certificate shows a building complies with relevant codes and laws, and is in suitable condition for occupancy. Exact requirements vary somewhat by jurisdiction. But in most cases, the owner or party controlling the property is responsible for obtaining the certificate.

The responsibility for obtaining a certificate of occupancy typically falls on:

• The seller, when selling a home. They need to get the certificate before closing so the buyer can finalize their financing.
• The landlord, when renting out a property. They must obtain a certificate of occupancy each time a new tenant moves in, to prove the unit is habitable.
• The general contractor or builder, for new construction. They arrange final inspections and permit sign-offs, then the local building department issues the certificate.
• The property owner, in general. They are responsible for keeping up with certificate requirements when doing renovations or changing occupancy type.

What Is The Process For Obtaining A Certificate Of Occupancy?

The process for obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) involves several steps and can vary depending on the local regulations and the type of property. Here is a general outline of the process:

1. Application: The first step is to apply for a CO. This typically involves submitting an application to the local building or zoning authority. The application may require information about the property, the owner, and the intended use of the building.
2. Inspections: After the application is submitted, a series of inspections are conducted to ensure the building complies with all relevant building codes and safety regulations. These inspections can include plumbing, electrical, structural, and ventilation checks. The inspections are usually carried out by the local building department or a designated inspector
3. Completion of Construction: All construction work must be completed before a CO can be issued. This includes any renovations or alterations that were part of the building permit. If the building is found to be incomplete or if deficiencies are noted, the CO cannot be issued.
4. Final Inspection: Once all construction is completed, a final inspection is conducted. This inspection verifies that all work has been completed according to the approved plans and that the building is safe for occupancy.
5. Issuance of the CO: If the building passes the final inspection, the CO is issued. The owner may need to pay any outstanding inspection fees before the CO is issued. In some cases, a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) may be issued. This allows the building to be occupied while additional work or permits are being finalized. A TCO is typically valid for a limited period, such as 90 days

It is important to note that the process can be complex and may require coordination with multiple municipal agencies. Therefore, it can be beneficial to work with a consultant or a dedicated project team to streamline the process and ensure all requirements are met.

Remember, the specific process and requirements can vary based on local regulations, so it’s crucial to check with your local building or zoning authority to ensure you’re following the correct process