Step-by-Step Guide
Search the building
Enter the address into RegWatch or DOB NOW (BIS is DOB's legacy system).
Check C of O type
Final = permanent. Temporary = limited period (check expiration). None = may indicate issues.
Verify legal use
Compare the C of O's legal use with the building's actual use. Discrepancies can mean violations.
Check for pending applications
A pending C of O application may indicate ongoing construction or conversion.
Additional Details
Buildings constructed after 1938 require a C of O. Using a building inconsistently with its C of O can result in DOB violations, fines, and even vacate orders.
What You Get with RegWatch
- Search any NYC address instantly
- Data from 250+ government sources
- Professional PDF reports
- Title abstract generation
- Portfolio monitoring
- AI property analyst
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free way to do this?
You can search some NYC agency databases for free individually (ACRIS, DOB BIS, HPD Online, DOF). RegWatch offers a free account: free property viewing plus saved buildings with in-app compliance alerts. Our coverage extends beyond NYC to Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and New Jersey counties.
How long does this take?
Manually: 30 minutes to several hours per property depending on depth. With RegWatch: under 3 seconds for a complete profile from 250+ sources.
Do I need any special tools?
No special tools required. RegWatch works in any modern web browser. For manual research, you just need internet access to city agency websites.
How current is the data?
RegWatch data from official NYC sources is updated multiple times per day. Most records are within 24 hours of the agency databases.
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