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Occupancy Permit

Learn what an occupancy permit is in Canadian real estate, when it’s needed, and how it certifies that a new or renovated home is safe to occupy.

Occupancy Permit

May 22, 2025


What is an Occupancy Permit?

An occupancy permit is a legal document issued by a municipal authority certifying that a newly constructed or renovated building complies with building codes and is safe for habitation.

Why Occupancy Permits Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, an occupancy permit is required before a buyer can legally move into a new home or condo unit. Builders must pass inspections for plumbing, electrical, fire safety, and structural compliance.

Key points include:
  • Issued after final inspection by city officials
  • Required for new builds and major renovations
  • May be needed before mortgage funding is released

In condo developments, interim occupancy may occur before full registration, allowing the buyer to move in while awaiting title transfer.

Understanding occupancy permits ensures buyers take possession legally and that properties meet municipal safety standards.

Example of Occupancy Permits in Action

The city inspector approves the new home’s final inspection, and the builder receives an occupancy permit, allowing the buyer to move in.

Key Takeaways

  • Confirms a home is safe and code-compliant.
  • Required before occupancy or closing.
  • Involves municipal inspection.
  • Common in new builds and condos.
  • Ensures legal possession rights.

Related Terms

  • Interim Occupancy
  • Building Permit
  • New Construction
  • Final Inspection
  • Municipal Compliance

Additional Terms

Back-End Ratio

The back-end ratio, or debt-to-income ratio, measures the percentage of a borrower’s gross monthly income spent on total monthly debt obligations,. more

Airspace Rights

Airspace rights are the legal rights to control, use, or sell the space above a parcel of land, separate from the ownership of the land itself.. more

Absorption Rate Analysis

Absorption rate analysis is the evaluation of how quickly available properties in a given market are being sold or leased during a specific time period.. more

Vacancy Rate

The vacancy rate is the percentage of all available rental units in a property or market that are unoccupied at a given time.. more

Sustainability

Sustainability in real estate refers to designing, constructing, and operating properties in ways that minimize environmental impact, support social. more

Soft Costs

Soft costs are the indirect expenses incurred in a construction project that are not directly tied to physical building materials or labour.. more

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