Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy before I close on my house?

No, you do not need a certificate of occupancy to close.

A certificate of occupancy is only needed to occupy a dwelling. Occupy includes moving in personal belongings even if you are not physically moving in. However, there may be instances, depending on the violation(s) found in the initial inspection, where the Housing Office would approve moving in personal belongings.

However, the mortgage company and/or the buyer may choose not to close without the certificate of occupancy.

Show All Answers

1. Am I required to have a fire extinguisher in my house?
2. Can a buyer sign off on violations found in a certificate of occupancy inspection?
3. Can the buyer schedule the certificate of occupancy inspection?
4. Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy before I close on my house?
5. Do I need a certificate of occupancy if the ownership is changing but the occupancy is not?
6. Does a house have to have at least one bath tub?
7. Does the township test for radon?
8. How do I apply for a Certificate of Approval (Occupancy) for my residence?
9. How long is a certificate of occupancy good for?
10. I am opening up a new business in an existing building, do I need a Certificate of Occupancy?
11. What are the codes for smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the home?
12. What are the fees for a Change of Occupancy Inspection?
13. What violations do they look for in a Change of Occupancy Inspection?
14. Who can get a copy of the certificate of occupancy report?