Closings glossary

Open permit

A DOB permit filed for work that was never signed off. Closing it usually means a licensed professional filing for inspection or formally withdrawing the job.

What is an open permit on a building?

Quick Answer

An open permit is a Department of Buildings permit that was pulled but never signed off. The City still treats the work as unfinished, the permit stays against the property after a sale regardless of who pulled it, and it commonly turns into a closing escrow or a delayed date.

The full definition

A DOB permit filed for work that was never signed off. Closing it usually means a licensed professional filing for inspection or formally withdrawing the job.

Where does open permit come up in a New York City closing?

A Queens seller's 2016 plumbing permit is still open, and the parties escrow $10,000 so the buyer can hire a plumber and obtain the sign-off.

What else should you read before closing?

In the glossary

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