New Construction - Newly constructed buildings usually need to apply for a certificate of occupancy. Property Conversion - When a property is changing from one use to another, a certificate of occupancy is usually required. For example, a warehouse that is being converted to residential lofts. Change of Ownership - When a multi-family property, industrial property, or other commercial space changes ownership, a new certificate of occupancy is usually required.
Is Certificate of occupancy required?Simply put, a certificate of occupancy—sometimes referred to as a use-and-occupancy certificate, or a U&O—is a document that says a building is safe to be lived in. Not all municipalities require them, but in the ones that do, these permits are usually issued by a local building or zoning authority.
