How to Obtain Final Approval or a Certificate of Occupancy for a Bathroom Project in Greensboro, NC

When completing a bathroom renovation or addition within the existing walls of your home in Greensboro, NC, securing final approval or a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is essential to ensure compliance with the North Carolina Building Code (NCBC) and local regulations. As a homeowner acting as your own general contractor, you’ll need to navigate the inspection process to finalize your project. This guide focuses on the steps to obtain final approval or a CO for a bathroom project using mid-range finishes, assuming all permits are pulled and regulations are followed.

Understanding Final Approval vs. Certificate of Occupancy

• Final Approval: Most bathroom renovations or additions within the existing footprint require only final approval of trade permits (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical). Passing final inspections “finals” the permits, allowing legal use of the space without a formal CO.

• Certificate of Occupancy (CO): A CO is typically required for projects that change a home’s occupancy classification (e.g., converting a non-habitable space into a bathroom) or involve significant structural changes. It certifies the space is safe and compliant. For bathroom projects within existing walls, a CO is often not needed unless occupancy changes.

Since your project is within existing walls, final approval is usually sufficient, but Greensboro’s Development Services will confirm if a CO is required.

Steps to Obtain Final Approval or a Certificate of Occupancy

Step 1: Verify Requirements with Greensboro’s Development Services

Confirm whether your project needs a CO or just final permit approvals.

• Contact Information:

  • Phone: 336-373-2155

  • Website: Development Services | Greensboro, NC

  • In-Person: 300 W. Washington St., Greensboro, NC 27401 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)

• Tasks:

  • Describe your project (e.g., bathroom renovation or addition, mid-range finishes, no occupancy change).

  • Ask if a CO is required or if final inspections suffice.

  • Confirm all necessary permits are in place (plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and possibly building).

• Resources: Visit Permits, Fees, and Procedures for permit details.

Per NC General Statute 160D-1116, a CO is mandatory for projects requiring a building permit unless exempted. Occupying a space without approval is a misdemeanor.

Step 2: Schedule and Pass Final Inspections

After completing all work (plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and finishes), schedule final inspections for all permitted trades to obtain approval.

• Scheduling:

  • Use the APRIL Automated Response System: Call 336-373-2400 or access APRIL Automated Response System.

  • Request by 8 p.m. the previous business day, using your permit number.

  • Alternatively, use the online scheduler: GSO BI Scheduler.

• Inspector Checklist:

  • Plumbing: Verifies fixtures, drainage, and water supply lines are operational and compliant per NCBC Chapter 30.

  • Electrical: Confirms GFCI outlets, lighting, and wiring meet NFPA 70, National Electrical Code.

  • Mechanical: Ensures ventilation fan (50 cfm intermittent or 20 cfm continuous, vented to exterior) complies with NCBC Section M1507. See How to Ensure Your Bathroom Ventilation Meets Code in Greensboro, NC.

  • Building: Checks structural integrity (if applicable) per North Carolina State Building Codes | OSFM.

  • Ensures finishes (e.g., tiles, vanity) are properly installed and no safety hazards exist.

• Duration: Inspections take 1–2 hours each, scheduled within 1–2 business days.

• Outcome: Address any issues (e.g., unsealed fixtures or improper wiring) and request re-inspections as needed.

Step 3: Obtain Final Approval or Certificate of Occupancy

• Final Approval:

  • If no CO is required, passing final inspections “finals” your permits. The inspector updates the permit status in Greensboro’s system, allowing legal use of the bathroom.

  • Retain inspection reports and permit records for documentation.

• Certificate of Occupancy:

  • If a CO is needed (e.g., for a new bathroom changing occupancy), the inspector issues it after passing final inspections.

  • Collect the CO at Development Services (300 W. Washington St.) or receive it digitally via the Plan Review & Tracking portal.

  • No additional fee is typically charged beyond permit costs ($50–$500, depending on project value).

Tips for Success

• Confirm Early: Verify CO requirements during permitting to avoid delays.

• Test Systems: Before inspections, test ventilation, outlets, and plumbing for functionality.

• Stay Organized: Keep permits, inspection reports, and subcontractor contracts in a project binder.

• Respond Promptly: Address inspector feedback quickly to expedite approval.

• Consult Resources: Use Development Services for guidance or request a pre-inspection consultation.

Why It Matters

Securing final approval or a CO ensures your bathroom is safe, compliant, and legally usable. Non-compliance can result in fines, issues during home sales, or costly retrofits. By following these steps, you’ll finalize your project with confidence.

For assistance, contact Development Services at 336-373-2155 or visit 300 W. Washington St., Greensboro, NC 27401. Complete your bathroom project successfully by obtaining the necessary approvals.