The Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Checklist: What NC Inspectors Check Last
After months of grading, framing, mechanical rough-ins, and interior finishing, the final milestone before you can legally move personal belongings into your new custom home is the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy (CO) by the local county building inspections department.
Understanding what building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and health department inspectors look for during final inspections prevents costly closing delays and keeps your move-in date on track.
Life Safety and Egress Requirements
Inspectors prioritize life safety above all else. Every bedroom must feature an operable emergency egress window meeting clear net opening dimensions (minimum 5.7 sq ft clear opening, 24 inches high, 20 inches wide, and maximum 44 inches sill height above finished floor).
Smoke alarms must be interconnected with battery backups in every bedroom, immediately outside bedroom hallways, and on every habitable story. Carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory on every level containing fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage.
Stairways, Handrails, and Guardrails
Stairs and elevated platforms are prime scrutiny zones. Guardrails are mandatory along any walking surface, deck, or porch elevated more than 30 inches above grade. Railings must measure at least 36 inches high with baluster spacing preventing the passage of a 4-inch sphere.
Handrails must be graspable (Type I or Type II profile), continuous along the entire stair flight, return to the wall or newel post, and withstand a 200-pound concentrated load in any direction.
Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC Operating Status
Every outlet in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, crawlspaces, unfinished basements, and outdoor areas must feature functional Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI) protection. Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (AFCI) protection is required on virtually all 120V bedroom and living room branch circuits under the National Electrical Code.
Plumbing fixtures must deliver balanced hot and cold water without leaks, anti-scald mixing valves must prevent shower burns, and HVAC equipment must maintain balanced airflow and pass certified duct/blower door testing.
Health Department Operations Permit and Final Grading
In rural areas with private on-site systems, the building department cannot issue a CO until the county Environmental Health Department issues an Operations Permit for the septic system and approved water sample results for the private well.
Exterior site inspectors also check finished ground slope: the soil must pitch away from the foundation at least 6 inches within the first 10 feet to prevent foundation moisture issues.
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