Your project is finally complete. The dust has settled, the last nail is in place, and you’re ready to open the doors. But hold on. Before you can move in, welcome tenants, or start your business, there’s one final, critical step: securing the Certificate of Occupancy. This isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s the government’s official seal of approval, confirming your property is safe, up to code, and legal to use. Getting your occupancy permit is the true finish line. It protects your investment and ensures the safety of everyone who walks through the door.
Key Takeaways
- Your CO is a critical financial and legal asset: A Certificate of Occupancy is non-negotiable for legally occupying a building. It’s required to secure insurance, finalize financing, and protect your property’s value for a future sale.
- A smooth process requires a clear plan: To get your permit without delays, you must submit complete application paperwork, ensure your project meets all building codes and zoning laws, and successfully pass all required inspections.
- Skipping the permit process is a costly mistake: Operating without a valid CO exposes you to significant fines, legal action, and serious safety liabilities. Address any violations promptly and consider professional help to manage the complexities.
What’s an Occupancy Permit and Why Do You Need One?
Think of a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), or Occupancy Permit, as the final seal of approval for your construction or renovation project. It’s an official document issued by your local building department that confirms your property is safe, structurally sound, and ready for people to move in. Whether you’ve built a new home, completed a major renovation, or changed how a commercial space is used, this permit is non-negotiable.
Getting a CO isn’t just about checking a box on a long to-do list. It’s a critical step that protects you, your investment, and anyone who sets foot on your property. It verifies that every aspect of the project—from electrical wiring and plumbing to structural integrity and fire safety—meets Florida’s strict building codes. Without it, you could face serious legal and financial consequences.
When is a Certificate of Occupancy Required?
The requirement for a CO isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule. It depends on the type of project, the property’s use, and sometimes even the specific city you’re in. It’s not just for brand-new skyscrapers; many different scenarios trigger the need for this final approval. Understanding when you need one is the first step to a smooth and compliant project completion. Let’s break down the most common situations where you’ll absolutely need to secure a Certificate of Occupancy in Florida.
New Construction and Major Renovations
This is the most straightforward case. If you’ve built any new structure from the ground up, whether it’s a commercial building or a custom home, you cannot legally occupy it without a CO. The same rule applies to major renovations and additions. If your project was significant enough to require multiple permits and inspections for things like electrical, plumbing, and structural work, the CO is the final document that ties everything together. It serves as official proof that all work has been inspected and complies with the current Florida Building Code, ensuring the space is safe for its intended occupants.
Change of Use or Occupancy Type
Imagine a retail boutique closes down, and you want to open a restaurant in its place. Even if you aren’t doing major construction, the intended use of the space has changed dramatically. This is called a “change of use,” and it requires a new Certificate of Occupancy. Your local municipality needs to verify that the building meets the specific code requirements for its new purpose. A restaurant, for example, has different fire safety, ventilation, and accessibility standards than a retail store. The CO process ensures these new requirements are met before you open for business, protecting both your staff and your customers.
Change of Ownership or Tenancy
This requirement can be a bit tricky because it varies from one Florida city or county to another. In some municipalities, a new CO is required every time a commercial property is sold or a new tenant moves in. This is the local government’s way of ensuring the property remains safe and up to code over time, preventing issues from going unaddressed between occupants. Because these local ordinances can be so specific, it’s a common point of confusion for property owners and developers. This is where having an expert who understands the nuances of different jurisdictions can save you from unexpected delays and compliance headaches.
Are There Exemptions to Needing a Permit?
Yes, but it’s important to understand the limits of these exemptions. Generally, single-family homes, duplexes, and townhouses do not require a new Certificate of Occupancy every time the property is sold to a new owner. The original CO issued when the home was built is typically sufficient. However, this exemption flies out the window if you’ve completed major renovations, built an addition, or finished a basement without the proper permits and final inspections. In those cases, you will need to have the work approved and a new or updated CO issued to legally reflect the changes and confirm the home’s safety. Correcting these issues often requires professional permitting services to get your property back into compliance.
How Permits Keep People Safe and You Compliant
At its core, a Certificate of Occupancy is a safety guarantee. It’s legal proof that your building is safe to live or work in because it complies with all local building and safety regulations. Inspectors check everything from smoke detector placement to the structural stability of the foundation to ensure the property doesn’t pose a risk to its occupants. This process is designed to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of your family, tenants, or customers. By securing a CO, you’re not just following the law; you’re upholding your responsibility to provide a secure environment for everyone who uses the space.
Protecting Your Investment (and Everyone In It)
Operating without a required Certificate of Occupancy can expose you to significant legal and financial trouble. Local governments can issue steep fines or even take legal action against property owners who allow occupancy without a valid permit. Beyond penalties, you’ll find it nearly impossible to legally rent or sell the property. A missing CO is a major red flag for potential buyers and tenants, signaling that the property may not be safe or legally sound. This simple document is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring you can legally generate income from your property.
Will a Permit Affect Your Property Value and Insurance?
A Certificate of Occupancy is crucial for the financial health of your property. Most lenders won’t finalize a mortgage, and insurance companies may refuse to provide coverage for a property that lacks a valid CO. If you’re planning to sell, a missing permit can derail the entire transaction or significantly lower your property’s value. Buyers will be hesitant to take on the risk and hassle of a non-compliant building. Ensuring all your permitting services are handled correctly from the start is the best way to protect your property’s long-term value and keep your financial options open.
Debunking Common Occupancy Permit Myths
Many property owners run into trouble by underestimating the complexity of the permit process. A common mistake is submitting an incomplete application or failing to provide the necessary documentation, which can cause long delays. Another frequent issue is not understanding local zoning regulations, which dictate how a property can be used. For example, you can’t operate a commercial business out of a building zoned strictly for residential use without proper approvals. These missteps can be costly and time-consuming, but they are entirely avoidable. Understanding the requirements upfront helps ensure a smooth and successful project completion.
Your Checklist for Getting an Occupancy Permit
Getting an occupancy permit, or Certificate of Occupancy (CO), might seem like a mountain of paperwork and inspections, but it’s really a series of manageable steps. Think of it as a final checklist to confirm your project is safe, compliant, and ready for people to use. Each step is critical, and missing a single detail can cause frustrating delays. Whether you’re a homeowner finishing a renovation or a developer launching a new commercial space, understanding these requirements is the key to a smooth process.
The exact requirements can vary slightly depending on your project’s location in Florida, but they all follow the same fundamental framework. From initial paperwork to the final walkthrough, being prepared will save you time, money, and a lot of stress. Let’s walk through the essential items you’ll need to have in order before you can get that all-important certificate.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Your journey to obtaining an occupancy permit starts with the application. This is your formal request to the local building department, and it needs to be complete and accurate. Most municipalities in Florida now have online portals where you can submit your application and upload supporting documents. You’ll typically need to provide the original building permit number, detailed plans, and any approvals from other departments like fire, zoning, and public works. It’s essential to have all your ducks in a row before you submit, as an incomplete application is one of the most common reasons for immediate delays. Our team can help you organize and manage all the necessary services to ensure your submission is perfect the first time.
Approved and Signed Building Plans
Before an inspector even steps on-site, the building department needs to see the official roadmap for your project: the approved and signed building plans. These aren’t just early drafts; they are the final, stamped blueprints that guided every step of the construction. You’ll need to provide these detailed plans along with your original building permit number to prove that what was built matches exactly what was approved. This step also shows that you’ve already received the necessary sign-offs from other key departments, such as zoning, public works, and the fire marshal. Keeping all this documentation organized is a key part of our permit expediting services, ensuring your project meets all community standards from the ground up.
Copies of Sub-Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, etc.)
Your main building permit is the star of the show, but it relies on a strong supporting cast of sub-permits. To get your CO, you’ll need to provide copies of all trade-specific permits, including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and HVAC. Each of these documents proves that a licensed professional completed the work and that it passed its own specific inspection. Think of it as a series of checkpoints. By presenting these closed-out sub-permits, you’re showing the building department that every critical system in your property is installed correctly, is up to code, and is verifiably safe for future occupants.
Certificate of Completion
The Certificate of Completion is a powerful document that acts as a formal sign-off from your entire project team. It’s typically a form filled out and signed by the key players who brought your vision to life: the architect, engineer, contractor, and you, the owner. By signing, each professional is officially stating that the project has been finished according to the approved plans and meets their professional standards. This certificate provides a unified declaration of quality and compliance, giving the building department the confidence that the project was executed correctly from start to finish by all responsible parties.
Construction Logbook
Think of the construction logbook as the official diary of your project. This detailed record, which should be maintained throughout the building process, documents what happened on-site each day. It includes notes on progress, materials used, inspections passed, and any issues that arose and were resolved. The logbook is typically signed by the architect or civil engineer overseeing the work. Submitting it provides the building department with a transparent, chronological account of the entire construction journey, demonstrating a commitment to quality control and offering clear proof that every stage was handled professionally and meticulously.
Meeting Essential Building Code Standards
Your project must comply with the Florida Building Code. These codes are the minimum standards for design, construction, and safety, covering everything from structural integrity and fire resistance to electrical and plumbing systems. During your project, inspectors will check the work at various stages to ensure it meets these requirements. As one expert notes, “Sometimes, the building plans may not comply with building codes and regulations, leading to permit denials.” This is why working with experienced architects and contractors who are up-to-date on the latest codes is so important. A final inspection will verify that all aspects of the construction are up to code before a CO can be issued.
Checking Off Local Zoning Laws
Beyond building codes, your project must also adhere to local zoning ordinances. While building codes dictate how you build, zoning laws determine what you can build and where. These regulations control land use, building height, setbacks from property lines, and parking requirements. “One significant challenge in seeking building permits is dealing with the complex and varied local zoning laws and codes,” which can differ greatly from one city or county to another. Before you even break ground, you need to confirm your project aligns with the local zoning map. Failing to do so can stop your project in its tracks and may require you to seek a variance, which is a lengthy and uncertain process.
Passing the Final Inspection with Confidence
The final inspection is the last major hurdle before you can get your occupancy permit. A city or county inspector will visit the site to conduct a comprehensive walkthrough and verify that the project is 100% complete and matches the approved plans. They will check that all life-safety systems, such as smoke detectors and fire alarms, are operational and that the property is safe for occupancy. To ensure a successful inspection, you need to be prepared. As one parish guide states, “An inspection will only happen if: You or someone you’ve approved is at the property. Utilities (like electricity, water) are working.” Make sure the site is clean, accessible, and ready for review to avoid a failed inspection and the need to reschedule.
Fire Safety and Egress Inspection
A huge part of the final inspection focuses on fire safety and egress—which is just a formal way of saying “a safe way out.” An inspector will confirm that all required life-safety systems are installed and working correctly. This includes checking the placement and function of smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems if your project requires them. They will also walk the property to ensure there are clear, unobstructed paths to all exits and that doors and windows open properly. As we mentioned, a Certificate of Occupancy is a safety guarantee. This inspection is the practical application of that promise, ensuring that in an emergency, everyone can exit the building quickly and safely, which is a core requirement of the Life Safety Code.
Structural Integrity Verification
The final inspection also serves as the ultimate confirmation of your building’s structural soundness. While specific structural elements like the foundation and framing were likely inspected at earlier stages, this is the final check to ensure the completed project is stable and secure. The inspector verifies that the building was constructed according to the approved plans and that all load-bearing components are correctly in place. This step confirms that every part of the project, especially its structural integrity, meets Florida’s strict building codes. This isn’t just about passing a test; it’s about ensuring the long-term safety and durability of your investment, a principle that also applies to ongoing safety checks like Florida’s building recertification program for older structures.
What to Do About Unpermitted Work
What happens if you have existing work that was done without a permit? Or if an inspector finds a violation during the project? You must resolve these issues before an occupancy permit can be granted. Ignoring them will only lead to fines and further delays. “If your permit application has been denied due to code compliance issues, it’s essential to review your building plans” and create a strategy to correct the problem. This might involve submitting new plans, performing corrective work, and scheduling additional inspections. Handling violations can be complicated, which is why many property owners request a proposal from experts who can help them get back on track.
Exploring “Amnesty” Permit Options for Older Buildings
Discovering unpermitted work in an older building can feel overwhelming, but many Florida municipalities offer a way forward through “amnesty” programs. These initiatives are designed to help property owners legalize past renovations without facing the harshest penalties. For instance, the City of Miami Beach offers a Building Code Violation Amnesty Program that allows you to use an As-Built Certificate from a licensed professional to prove the work meets current codes. Hialeah has a similar program that lets you correct unpermitted work by submitting certified as-built plans. Some cities, like Sunrise, even provide a Lien Amnesty Program to help resolve outstanding fines tied to code violations. Using these programs is a smart move to protect your property’s value, ensure occupant safety, and finally get your building fully compliant.
How to Get Your Occupancy Permit in Florida
Getting an occupancy permit in Florida can feel like a complex puzzle, but it becomes much clearer when you break it down into manageable steps. From gathering your initial paperwork to passing the final inspection, each stage has its own set of requirements. Think of it as a project checklist. By tackling one item at a time and knowing what to expect, you can move through the process efficiently and get your doors open sooner.
Starting Your Application: The First Steps
Your first move is to submit a formal application to your local building department. This isn’t just a single form; it’s a package of documents that proves your project is ready for occupancy. You’ll typically need to include proof of ownership, detailed construction plans, and any other paperwork showing you’ve followed local building codes. Getting familiar with the building codes toolkit for your area is a great starting point. Having all your documents organized and complete from the beginning is the best way to prevent immediate delays and show the department you’re serious about compliance.
Partnering with Your Local Building Department
Think of your local building department as a key partner in this process. Their job is to review your application and confirm that your property is safe and up to code. Building a positive, professional relationship with them can make a huge difference. Open and clear communication is essential, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about a requirement. If managing this relationship feels overwhelming, remember that professional permit expediting services exist to handle this communication for you, ensuring everything is submitted correctly and on time. This can save you countless hours of back-and-forth.
Juggling Multiple Agencies? Here’s How
It’s rare for a building project to need approval from just one office. More often than not, you’ll find yourself coordinating with several different agencies at the local, state, and sometimes even federal levels. For example, you might need separate sign-offs from the fire department, the health department, or an environmental protection agency. Handling these regulatory challenges is one of the most complex parts of the process. Each agency has its own set of rules and timelines, so it’s crucial to identify every required approval early on to keep your project moving forward without any surprises.
How to Schedule Your Required Inspections
Once your application is in and has been reviewed, it’s time for inspections. This is the make-or-break moment where an official inspector visits your property to verify that the work matches the plans and meets all safety standards. They’ll check everything from electrical wiring and plumbing to structural integrity and fire safety systems. You can’t get your Certificate of Occupancy without passing these inspections. Make sure your contractor has completed all work to code and is available to walk through the site with the inspector to address any potential questions on the spot.
How Long Does It Take (and What Causes Delays)?
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to permitting. The timeline for receiving an occupancy permit can vary widely depending on your municipality’s workload and the complexity of your project. Delays are common, often stemming from backlogs at the permit office, requests for additional information, or failed inspections that require re-work. Understanding the potential for compliance challenges from the start helps you build a more realistic project schedule. Factor in some buffer time so that a small setback doesn’t derail your entire plan.
Typical Processing Timelines for Permit Requests
So, how long will you be waiting? The honest answer is: it depends. Timelines for getting an occupancy permit can vary dramatically across Florida, based on your project’s scope and the specific municipality you’re working with. For a straightforward project, you might be looking at three to six weeks, but more complex commercial builds can easily stretch into several months. For instance, the average processing time in Miami can be around 28 to 45 days. In contrast, some smaller municipalities like Fort Myers Beach can process simple trade permits in just a few hours, while new construction reviews take ten to fifteen business days. This inconsistency is one of the biggest headaches for builders and developers, making it difficult to create a reliable project schedule.
Tracking Your Application Status Online
Many Florida counties and cities have modernized their permitting systems with online portals. These digital tools are incredibly helpful for keeping tabs on your application’s progress. You can typically see which department is reviewing your file, check for any comments or requests for more information, and even schedule your inspections directly through the portal. Take the time to explore your local building department’s website to see what online resources are available. Using these portals allows you to be proactive and responsive, which can help speed up the entire process and keep you informed every step of the way.
How to Get a Copy of an Existing Permit
Whether you’re planning a new renovation, selling your property, or just want to keep your records in order, you might need a copy of a previously issued permit. Thankfully, you don’t have to dig through dusty file cabinets at the county office. Most building departments across Florida have digitized their records, making them accessible online. Your first step should be to visit your local city or county building department’s website and look for a “Permit Search” or “Public Records” portal. Systems like those used in Hillsborough County allow you to search by address or permit number to find the information you need quickly and efficiently.
Understanding Permit Renewal Requirements
It’s a common misconception that a building permit is valid forever. In reality, most permits have an expiration date—they typically expire if work doesn’t begin within 180 days of issuance or if work stops for 180 days. This rule ensures projects are completed in a timely manner and adhere to the building codes that were in effect when the permit was approved. If your project timeline extends, you must apply for a renewal or extension *before* the original permit expires. Letting a permit lapse is a costly mistake that could force you to start the entire application process over, potentially under new and stricter codes. Managing these critical deadlines is where our permit expediting services can prevent major headaches and keep your project on track.
The Costs and Risks of Skipping a Permit
Getting an occupancy permit isn’t just another box to check. It’s a critical step that carries significant weight, impacting your budget, legal standing, and the safety of everyone who sets foot on the property. Skipping this process or trying to cut corners can lead to a cascade of problems that are far more expensive and stressful than doing it right the first time. Let’s walk through the real-world costs and consequences you need to be aware of.
How Much Does an Occupancy Permit Cost?
The cost of an occupancy permit in Florida isn’t one-size-fits-all. The fees are set by your local municipality and typically depend on the project’s size, type, and value. For a straightforward residential project, you might pay a few hundred dollars, while a large commercial building could run into the thousands. These initial application fees are just the beginning. You also need to budget for inspection fees, and if your project fails an inspection, you’ll likely have to pay for a re-inspection. Don’t forget the potential costs of any last-minute fixes required to meet code. Planning for these expenses from the start helps you avoid surprise bills and keeps your project on budget.
A Breakdown of Other Project Permit Fees
While the occupancy permit fee marks the end of your project, it’s just one of several costs you’ll encounter along the way. The main expense is typically the building permit itself, which is often calculated based on your project’s total value or square footage. On top of that, you’ll need to account for sub-permits for specialized work like electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems, each with its own fee. Don’t forget to budget for inspections, too. If an inspector finds an issue, you could face additional re-inspection fees to get the final sign-off. Understanding the full scope of these costs upfront is key to keeping your project on track, and our team is experienced in handling all the various permits required across Florida to give you a clear financial picture from the start.
The Legal Consequences of Not Having a Permit
Moving in or opening for business without a valid Certificate of Occupancy is a risky gamble. If the local government discovers the oversight, you could face some serious legal trouble. Municipalities have the authority to issue steep fines that can accumulate daily until the property is brought into compliance. In more serious cases, they can issue a stop-work order or even take legal action against the property owner. Beyond financial penalties, occupying a building without a CO can void your insurance policies, leaving you completely exposed if an accident occurs. It’s a legal requirement designed to protect everyone, and ignoring it can have lasting consequences.
Daily Fines and Financial Penalties
Let’s talk about the fines, because they aren’t just a one-time slap on the wrist. Most Florida municipalities have the authority to issue penalties that accumulate for every single day the property is occupied without a valid CO. A seemingly manageable fine of a couple hundred dollars a day can quickly spiral into thousands, creating a significant financial burden. This mounting pressure is designed to push you toward compliance, but it can derail your budget fast. These penalties are completely separate from the costs you’ll eventually incur to correct the violations and secure the proper permits, making it a costly cycle that is much easier to avoid by getting things right from the start.
Citations and Specific Code Violations
On top of the daily fines, you’ll also receive official citations that document specific code violations. This creates a formal, public record of non-compliance that can be a major red flag for future buyers or lenders, making it difficult to sell or refinance your property. Even more critically, occupying a building without a CO can give your insurance provider grounds to void your policy. If an accident, fire, or other disaster occurs while the property is illegally occupied, your claim could be denied, leaving you to cover the catastrophic losses yourself. This is why ensuring your building is fully compliant, sometimes through processes like a building recertification, is about protecting your entire investment from devastating risk.
Protecting Yourself from Liability and Safety Risks
At its core, a Certificate of Occupancy is a declaration that your building is safe for humans. It serves as official proof that your property meets all current building and safety codes, from electrical wiring and plumbing to structural integrity and fire safety measures. Without this final sign-off, you have no guarantee that the work was done correctly. This exposes occupants to potential dangers and places a massive liability on you as the owner. If an accident happens in an uncertified building, you could be held personally responsible for injuries or damages, a situation no property owner ever wants to face.
Can You Sell or Finance a Property Without a Permit?
A valid Certificate of Occupancy is a non-negotiable piece of paperwork in most real estate transactions. If you plan to sell your property, potential buyers and their mortgage lenders will almost certainly require a CO to close the deal. Lacking the proper permits can bring a sale to a screeching halt, forcing you to either resolve the issues under pressure or lose the buyer altogether. Similarly, if you’re trying to refinance a property, lenders will verify that all work is permitted and approved. Keeping your permits in order protects your property’s value and ensures you have a smooth, successful transaction when it’s time to sell or refinance.
When to Use a Temporary Occupancy Permit
What if your project is mostly finished, but a few minor, non-safety items are still pending? In some cases, you may be able to apply for a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). A TCO allows you to legally occupy a building for a specific period while you complete the remaining work, like landscaping or final paint touch-ups. This can be incredibly useful for large-scale projects where different phases are completed at different times. It provides flexibility without compromising on core safety standards. Each municipality has its own rules for TCOs, so it’s important to understand the specific requirements and limitations in your area.
Using a TCO to Stock Shelves or Place Furniture
A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy can be a huge advantage when you’re eager to get your space operational. This permit allows you to start setting up before the final Certificate of Occupancy is issued, giving you a valuable head start. For business owners, this means you can begin stocking shelves, arranging displays, and training staff. For homeowners, it allows you to start moving in furniture and making the house feel like a home. This flexibility helps you prepare for your grand opening or settle in sooner, but it comes with a critical condition. A TCO is only granted when all essential life-safety systems are installed and approved. You can use the space while you complete minor outstanding tasks, like landscaping or final paint touch-ups, but you must first ensure all safety standards are met.
When Should You Call a Professional?
The permitting process can feel like a maze of paperwork, inspections, and regulations. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply don’t have the time to manage every detail, it’s a good idea to bring in a professional. Permit expediting services exist to make your life easier. An expert can help you prepare your application, coordinate with various city and county departments, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during inspections. By leaning on professional help, you can avoid common pitfalls and keep your project moving forward. When you’re ready for a smoother process, you can request a proposal to see how we can help.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a building permit and an occupancy permit? Think of it this way: a building permit is your permission to start the project, while a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is your official approval that the project is finished correctly and is safe to use. You get the building permit before you pick up a hammer, and you get the CO after the final nail is in place and all inspections have passed.
Do I need an occupancy permit for a minor renovation, like remodeling a kitchen? Typically, no. A Certificate of Occupancy is usually required for new construction, a major addition that changes the footprint of your home, or when you change how a space is used, like converting a commercial office into an apartment. While your kitchen remodel will still need its own permits and inspections, it generally won’t require a brand new CO for the entire house.
What’s the most common reason an occupancy permit gets delayed? The biggest hold-ups often come from two main issues: incomplete paperwork and failed inspections. Submitting an application with missing documents or incorrect information will cause an immediate delay. Similarly, if the final inspector finds that the work doesn’t match the approved plans or violates a safety code, you’ll have to make corrections and wait for a re-inspection, which pushes back your timeline.
What should I do if I discover unpermitted work was done on my property by a previous owner? This is a common problem, but it is fixable. Your first step should be to contact your local building department to learn their process for legalizing the work. You will likely need to submit “as-built” plans showing the work that was done and go through a series of inspections to ensure everything is up to current code. It can be a complex process, but addressing it is the only way to make the property fully compliant.
Can I get a temporary permit to move in if my project is almost done? Yes, this is often possible through a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, or TCO. A TCO may be issued when the building is safe for people to be in—meaning all life-safety systems are working—but minor items are still outstanding, like final landscaping or exterior paint. It allows you to use the property for a limited time while you wrap up those last few details.