Step-by-step
Check DOB NOW
Start with DOB NOW at a810-dobnow.nyc.gov — the DOB's primary system. Search by address and look under the associated job filing for the Certificate of Occupancy, especially for newer buildings or recent alterations.
Search the Legacy BIS
For older certificates, search the legacy BIS at a810-bisweb.nyc.gov by address or BIN. On the property profile page, look for the "Certificate of Occupancy" section. If available digitally, you can view the scanned C of O.
Request from DOB Records
If the C of O is not available online, you can request it from the DOB Borough Office. Visit the office for the borough where the building is located with the address and Block/Lot information. There may be a small copying fee.
Review the C of O Details
The Certificate of Occupancy specifies the legal use for each floor, maximum occupancy, construction class, building height, and any special conditions. Compare this to the actual use of the building.
Check for Temporary C of O
Some buildings operate under a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) which is valid for 90 days and can be renewed. TCOs indicate that certain conditions must still be met for a final C of O.
Verify with RegWatch
RegWatch displays C of O status as part of its building profile, alongside DOB permits, violations, and complaints. Quickly verify whether a building has a valid C of O before making decisions.
Overview
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is one of the most important documents for any NYC building. It is issued by the Department of Buildings and certifies that a building complies with the Building Code and is safe for its intended use.
Why the C of O Matters
The C of O defines what a building can legally be used for. A building with a residential C of O cannot be used commercially without an alteration and a new C of O. Mismatched use and C of O can result in violations, vacate orders, and insurance complications. Lenders will not finance a purchase if the C of O does not match the building use.
Buildings Without a C of O
Many older NYC buildings predate the C of O requirement. These buildings may have a "Letter of No Objection" instead, which states that the DOB has no objection to the current use based on available records. This is not the same as a C of O but serves a similar purpose for pre-existing buildings.
Frequently asked
Does every NYC building have a Certificate of Occupancy?
No. Many buildings constructed before 1938 may not have a C of O on file. These buildings may instead have a Letter of No Objection or no documentation at all. A C of O is required for all new construction and major alterations.
What is the difference between a C of O and a TCO?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a permanent document. A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) is valid for 90 days and indicates that the building is safe for occupancy but some final conditions remain. TCOs can be renewed.
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