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    Certificate of Occupancy Services in NYC

    BVS navigates the complex CO and TCO process end-to-end — coordinating inspections, sign-offs, and agency requirements to get your building certified for legal occupancy.

    What Is a Certificate of Occupancy?

    A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is an official document issued by the NYC Department of Buildings confirming that a building complies with all applicable codes and is safe for its intended use. Without a valid CO, a property cannot be legally occupied, sold, or refinanced. BVS specializes in obtaining, amending, and correcting Certificates of Occupancy for properties across all five boroughs.

    CO vs. TCO

    A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) allows partial or conditional occupancy while outstanding items are resolved. TCOs expire — typically every 90 days — and must be renewed until a final CO is issued. BVS manages the entire lifecycle, ensuring TCO renewals don't lapse and working systematically toward final CO issuance.

    Common Obstacles to Getting a CO

    Open Violations

    Any open DOB, FDNY, or ECB violation can block CO issuance. BVS works to clear building violations and close DOB violations as part of the CO process.

    Incomplete Sign-Offs

    Multiple city agencies must sign off on structural, fire protection, plumbing, electrical, and elevator systems.

    Zoning Non-Compliance

    The building's current use must match what's permitted under zoning. Discrepancies require variances or use amendments.

    Outstanding Inspections

    Final inspections for every permitted scope of work must be completed and approved.

    Our CO Process

    1

    Audit

    We review your building's full permit and violation history to identify every item blocking CO issuance.

    2

    Remediation

    Open violations are resolved, missing inspections are scheduled, and incomplete applications are finalized.

    3

    Coordination

    We manage sign-offs from DOB, FDNY, DOT, and all other relevant agencies simultaneously.

    4

    Issuance

    Once all conditions are satisfied, we secure your Certificate of Occupancy and confirm it's properly recorded.

    Why a CO Matters

    Without a valid CO, property owners face legal exposure, insurance complications, and an inability to close real estate transactions. Banks and title companies require a current CO before funding any deal. BVS ensures your property's documentation is airtight.

    Need a Certificate of Occupancy?

    Contact BVS today for a comprehensive CO audit and a clear roadmap to issuance.