Answer first: For a certificate of occupancy lookup check, search the local building department or property information system by address, parcel, block/lot, or borough, then verify the legal use, occupancy group, unit count, issue date, temporary certificate status, and any open permits or violations.
Last checked: June 8, 2026.
Quick check
| Check | Why it matters | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Official property record | CO records are usually local, not national. | City or county building department |
| Legal use | Residential, commercial, mixed-use, and accessory spaces can differ. | Certificate of occupancy |
| Unit count | Listings may not match legal unit records. | Property profile and CO |
| Temporary status | A temporary certificate may have expiration or conditions. | Building department record |
| Open permits or violations | A CO check can miss unresolved work unless related records are checked. | Permit and violation lookup |
Step-by-step verification
- Identify the local building department that controls the property address.
- Search by address, parcel, block and lot, or building identification number.
- Open the certificate of occupancy or property profile record if available.
- Compare legal use and unit count with the listing, lease, appraisal, or renovation plan.
- Check related open permits, violations, complaints, or temporary certificate notes.
- Ask the local office or a qualified professional before relying on unclear records.
What can differ
- Older buildings may have no modern certificate in the online system.
- Some cities use temporary certificates, letters of completion, or equivalent records.
- A certificate can show legal use but not guarantee code compliance today.
Official sources
Use official or primary sources before relying on ads, directories, old forum posts, or copied summaries.
| Official source | URL |
|---|---|
| NYC Department of Buildings certificate of occupancy guidance | https://www.nyc.gov/site/buildings/industry/obtain-a-co.page |
| NYC Buildings Information System | https://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/bispi00.jsp |
| NYC Department of Buildings | https://www.nyc.gov/site/buildings/index.page |
Related checks
FAQ
Is there a national certificate of occupancy database?
No. CO records are usually handled by the local building department.
What if no certificate appears online?
Older properties or local systems may require archive, paper, or staff-assisted searches.
Does a certificate prove a property has no violations?
No. Check permits, violations, complaints, and inspections separately.
Note: Home Public Check is not a government agency, regulator, airline, manufacturer, lender, tax adviser, legal adviser, or official registry. This guide explains how to check official sources before acting.