The occupancy date is the point at which property taxes become a new owner's responsibility during real estate transactions. Property tax proration splits annual taxes between buyer and seller based on this date. Typical arrangements have the seller responsible for taxes up to occupancy and the buyer responsible afterward, with adjustments made at closing. Occupancy date also matters for new construction, determining when completed buildings begin appearing on tax rolls. Provincial legislation or local custom determines how occupancy dates affect tax responsibility. Understanding occupancy dates helps property buyers and sellers anticipate tax obligations during real estate transactions.