• A Certificate of Occupancy is required by some, but not all, Vermont towns.  This document certifies that the home is ready to be lived in. Generally it confirms that the dwelling complies with local building, safety and health by-laws. 

• In many cases a Certificate of Occupancy is required by a lender before closing a loan. 

• A Certificate might also be required in order for title to be considered "saleable".  In other words a property might not be able to be sold without a Certificate of Occupancy.  This requirement for clear title has been confirmed by the Vermont Supreme Court.

The best way to find out if a Certificate of Occupancy is needed is to check with the municipal zoning officer.