Glossary Term
A certificate of occupancy is an official document from a local government confirming that a building meets code and is legally approved for people to live in. It certifies the property's permitted use and that it passed required inspections. Whether one is required, and what it covers, depends on local law and the type of property.
In short
A certificate of occupancy is an official document from a local government confirming that a building meets code and is legally approved for people to live in. It certifies the property's permitted use and that it passed required inspections. Whether one is required, and what it covers, depends on local law and the type of property.
Renting a unit without a required certificate of occupancy can affect your safety, your rent obligations, and your legal protections. Knowing about it helps you avoid illegal or unsafe units.
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It is a government document confirming the unit is legally approved and safe for people to live in. Requirements vary by location and property type.
It depends on local law. In some areas a landlord can't legally collect rent without one, and the unit may be considered illegal to occupy.
Ask your landlord and contact your local building or housing department. They can usually tell you whether a certificate exists and what it covers.
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