Construction · Defined
Certificate of occupancy
A document issued by the authority having jurisdiction concerning a building’s approved occupancy or use. The name, requirements, and treatment of temporary certificates vary by jurisdiction.
Why it matters
An occupancy document and contractual completion are different milestones. Review its coverage, conditions, expiration where applicable, and excluded areas rather than treating its existence as proof that every project obligation is complete.
In practice
A project example
A temporary certificate may cover one portion of a development while another remains under construction. The lender’s closeout conditions may cover the whole project.
General educational guidance from KOW Building Consultants. Examples are illustrative, not project records. The applicable contract, standard, program, and jurisdiction control the requirements for a specific assignment.