National Real Estate Exam (PSI)Land Use Controls and RegulationsEasy
After completing construction of a new home, a builder must obtain a document from the local building department before the owner can legally occupy it. What is this document called?
- AA certificate of occupancy
- BA variance approval
- CA plat map
- DA building permit
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. A certificate of occupancy
A certificate of occupancy (CO) is issued after final inspection confirming the structure complies with building codes and is safe for occupancy. It is required before anyone may legally live in or use the building.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A variance is unrelated to occupancy; it grants an exception to zoning rules.
- C. A plat map shows lot boundaries and subdivisions, not building compliance.
- D. A building permit is obtained before construction begins, authorizing the work.
Certificate of Occupancy
An official document issued by a local government confirming a building complies with codes and is safe for occupancy.
- Issued after final inspection
- Required before legal occupancy or use
- Different from a building permit, which is obtained before construction
Memory trick: No CO, no move-in.