Do sellers need a certificate of occupancy?

One of the responsibilities of a seller when they make the decision to sell their home is to obtain a certificate of occupancy and a smoke detector and carbon monoxide certificate prior to closing. Those are two separate inspections. The carbon monoxide and smoke detector certificate is completed by the fire department. It is important to be aware that there is a fee associated with that inspection.

In some towns, there is also a certificate of occupancy requirement. The certificate of occupancy requirement provides that the building inspector comes to your home and inspects your home to determine if any repairs are necessary prior to closing. If repairs are necessary, you will need to complete those repairs prior to closing so that the town will issue the certificate of occupancy, which is provided to the buyer. At closing, you will provide either a carbon monoxide and smoke detector certificate to the buyer or both the carbon monoxide and smoke detector certificate and the certificate of occupancy.

These safety measurements are taken in order to ensure that you will be moving into a home that is not harmful to your health. Certificates of occupancy are an important step in moving along with the process of purchasing of your home. If you have questions regarding your specific case, contact an experienced real estate attorney.

Joseph Gachko, Esq. is an experienced New Jersey attorney who can assist you in any of your real estate-related legal matters. If you require legal counsel for your real estate matters, please contact The Law Office of Joseph Gachko today to set up a consultation.