When is a Certificate of Occupancy required?

Property type

Certificate required?

Renewal cycle

1 or 2 family, owner-occupied*

1 or 2 family, owned by RHA*   

No 

None

*A C of O may be required if newly occupying or re-occupying a building

1 or 2 family, occupied by the
owner's spouse, child, parent or sibling
 

Eligible for an exemption

3 years

1 or 2 family rental, not owner-occupied**
 

Yes

6 years

**Lead exceptions

• The property is located in the Lead High-Risk Area

• Deteriorated paint is found inside during an inspection

3 years

Mixed occupancy (1 or more dwelling units)   

Yes

3 years

Apartment building (3 or more dwelling units) 

Yes

3 years

Commercial*

None