Certificate of Occupancy, Buffalo, NY

[Peter Cook]

Hi;

I'm planing to buy a rental property in Buffalo, NY. I was shown a "standard" contract of sale, that contains a clause stating that the seller would not be required to provide a Certificate of Occupancy (CoO) if the property is a single family or a multiple family unit. Few people from the area told me that it is a standard practice not to require CoO on sale/purchase. My understanding of the town building code is that a CoO is required, and my understanding of the law in general is that CoO is a must for a rental property. I would appreciate if people with experience regarding rentals in Buffalo and surrounding area specifically (Tonawanda, Amherst) would share their understanding of the town code, sale/purchase practices and legal requirement in respect to a Certificate of Occupancy... Thanks!

Further, would the permits and CoO be listed on the paperwork that can be obtained in the Town's Building Department in Buffalo, or Tonawanda, or Amherst? Thanks again.