HouseChalkCertificate of Occupancy (CO)
A Certificate of Occupancy is an official document issued by the local government verifying that a building complies with building codes and is safe to live in.
Why it matters
You cannot legally move into a new home or a major addition without a CO. Lenders usually require it before releasing final funds or closing a construction loan.
Where people get this wrong
A CO indicates the home is legally habitable, but it does NOT mean the home is perfect or that the builder is finished with the punch list.
Real-world example
The builder finishes the major systems, and the city inspector walks through. They sign off, issue the CO, and you are finally allowed to sleep in the house while the builder touches up the paint.
Where this hits your build
This comes up early, before construction starts. It affects your contract, your budget, or both. Misunderstanding it can cost you money or leverage.
Most people do not just struggle with terms. They struggle with the decisions tied to them.
See how HouseChalk helps with the decisions behind terms like this