Florida Building Contractor Business/Finance Practice Exam

Who is responsible for authorizing a temporary certificate of occupancy?

1. Construction manager

2. Architect

3. Building official

4. Project owner

The correct answer is: Building official

A temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) is an essential component of the building inspection and licensing process, providing an interim approval for a building to be occupied before it receives a full certificate of occupancy. The responsibility for authorizing a TCO typically lies with the building official. This official is designated by the local governing authority and is responsible for ensuring that the building complies with relevant codes and regulations. The building official evaluates whether the completed portions of the project meet safety and regulatory standards, allowing occupants to use the space while final work is completed. Their expertise ensures that interim occupancy does not jeopardize safety or violate legal requirements. In contrast, other roles such as the construction manager, architect, and project owner might have significant input or influence on the project, but ultimately, it is the building official who has the authority and responsibility to issue the temporary certificate of occupancy based on the completed inspections and code compliance evaluations.