# Certificate of Occupancy & Closeout
## Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
The **CO** is the building department's sign-off that the building is **safe and legal to occupy**. It's issued after final inspections of building, fire, accessibility, and site work pass. **No CO, no move-in** (and often no permanent financing). A **temporary CO (TCO)** may allow partial occupancy while punch items finish.
## Closeout
Wrapping up the construction contract:
- **Punch list** — final corrections completed.
- **Release of retainage** — paid after punch list and final lien waivers.
- **Final lien waivers** from GC and subs.
- **Warranties, O&M manuals, and as-builts** delivered.
- **Final payment** and contract closeout.
## Don't rush it
A disciplined closeout protects you: it confirms the work is complete, the liens are cleared, and you have the documentation you'll need for operations and any future warranty claims.
**Takeaway:** No Certificate of Occupancy, no move-in — and don't rush closeout; it clears your liens.
> *Educational content — not legal, engineering, or financial advice. Requirements vary by jurisdiction; always confirm with the local authority and your professional team.*
