Yes, a new Use & Occupancy permit application is required for each new home, new commercial structure, existing residential resale (real estate transactions), apartments, change of residential or commercial tenants, and home-based businesses.

A Use & Occupancy Certificate is required for each resale, lease or rental property. The seller/owner is responsible for obtaining a Use and Occupancy application from the Township, as well as, paying the fee and setting up an inspection. Real Estate agents are authorized to apply in place of seller(s). To ensure everyone's safety, no person should go to settlement or occupy a space without a Use and Occupancy Certificate. 

Fill out the Residential or Commercial Use & Occupancy Permit Application, submit payment in the form of cash/check (payable to New Britain Township), and schedule an inspection by calling (215) 822-1391 once the township has received your application and fee.

Since a Use & Occupancy Certificate is only effective for 30 days upon issuance, an inspection should be scheduled no earlier than three weeks prior to your settlement date. 

The Use & Occupancy inspection is not a substitute for a standard home inspection when buying or selling a property. The Township is checking for general health, safety, and welfare issues, such as hand rails, tripping hazards, smoke detectors, etc.