Certificate of Occupancy

 

A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is basically the final approval from the city or county that says a home is safe and ready to live in. It means the house has passed all inspections—like electrical, plumbing, structure, and safety—and meets local building codes. Without it, you legally shouldn’t move into or use the home yet. Think of it as the “green light” that everything was built correctly and is good to go.

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Allen County Building Department: 

• Approved building permits must be obtained and posted on site

• All required inspections must be completed and passed (including footing, foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, insulation, and final inspections)

• Electrical system must be installed per code and approved, including panel labeling and final inspection sign-off

• Plumbing system must be installed, tested, and approved

• HVAC system must be installed, operational, and compliant with applicable standards

• Structural components (including framing, trusses, beams, and load-bearing elements) must meet engineering and code requirements

• Roofing must be installed per manufacturer specifications and code, including proper underlayment and flashing

• Windows and doors must be installed per manufacturer specifications and code requirements

• Weather-resistant barrier (WRB) and flashing must be properly installed

• Insulation must meet required energy code standards and pass inspection

• Air sealing and energy performance requirements must be met (including blower door testing, if required)

• Ductwork must be installed and sealed properly (including duct leakage testing, if required)

• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors must be installed per code

• Stairways, railings, and safety features must meet code requirements

• Egress requirements (including emergency escape and rescue openings) must be met

• Site grading and drainage must direct water away from the structure

• Address must be clearly visible from the street

• All life safety requirements must be satisfied

• Final building inspection must be completed and approved by the local authority

• Any applicable local ordinances or additional county requirements must be satisfied 

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Please let me know if you have any questions.