Certificate of occupancy inspections

Before a new building, addition or renovated space can be occupied, the local authority usually has to be satisfied that the work meets the building code and the approved permit. We inspect the building ahead of that final review, find the deficiencies that commonly hold up occupancy, and help you close them out so the official inspection goes smoothly.

Where we fit in the process

The certificate of occupancy, occupancy permit or final occupancy approval is issued by the authority having jurisdiction, which is usually the municipality. The name and the steps differ between provinces and between cities, and only the authority can grant it. Our role is independent preparation: we look at the building the way a final inspector will, tell you what is likely to be flagged, and help you fix it before the inspector arrives.

That is useful because a failed final inspection can mean a re-booking, a delayed move-in and tenants or buyers waiting. Finding a missing fire separation, a blocked exit or a missing guard a week early is far cheaper than finding it on the day.

What we look at

• Exits and egress: exit routes, door hardware and swing, stair and ramp details, guards and handrails, and exit signage.
• Fire separations: rated walls and floors, firestopping at penetrations, fire doors and closers, and dampers where they can be seen.
• Life safety systems: presence and condition of fire alarm devices, sprinklers, emergency lighting and extinguishers, and whether verification and testing documents are in hand.
• Mechanical and plumbing: ventilation, exhaust, heating, backflow prevention and fixtures, compared with the approved drawings.
• Electrical: panels, labelling, visible wiring, receptacles and emergency power, and whether electrical permits have been closed.
• Accessibility: accessible routes, entrances, washrooms and signage where required.
• Documentation: permits, inspection records, letters of assurance, test reports and other papers the authority is likely to ask for.

How it works

1. Review the permit and drawings. We start with the approved permit set, any conditions on it, and the inspections already completed.
2. Pre-occupancy walkthrough. We inspect the building room by room against the drawings and the requirements that commonly cause failed finals.
3. Deficiency list. You receive a list of items to correct, each with a location, photograph and the reason it matters.
4. Coordinate corrections. We work with your contractor and trades to clarify what is needed, and we track items to close.
5. Re-check. We verify the corrections and confirm the documents are assembled before you book the authority's inspection.
6. Final inspection support. If you want, we attend the authority's inspection and help resolve any remaining items afterward.

What you get

• A clear, prioritized deficiency list before the official inspection
• A checklist of the documents the authority is likely to request
• Follow-up verification of corrected items
• Notes on systems that need tests or verifications by licensed contractors, such as fire alarm verification

Who it's for

• Developers and general contractors approaching substantial completion
• Owners and tenants finishing a tenant improvement or change of use
• Property managers taking over a newly completed building
• Owners who have had a failed final inspection and need a plan to fix it

Learn more before you book

Read what a certificate of occupancy is and how occupancy permits differ from building permits. If your project also needs commissioning, our guide to commissioning a new building explains how the two fit together. To discuss your project, call 1-833-888-0091 or email contact@ehzee.ca.

Common questions