Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

co and smoke detectors

In Massachusetts, prior to selling or transferring a one or two-family residence, state law mandates that the property must comply with specific smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector requirements. The local fire department must inspect the residence to confirm proper smoke/CO alarm placement and issue a Certificate of Compliance confirming that the alarms meet the necessary standards. This certificate is valid for 60 days and is required at the time of sale or transfer. If the home does not meet these standards, the sale cannot legally proceed.

Smoke Detector Requirements

Regardless of home age, smoke alarms must be installed:

* On every habitable level of the home, including finished basements and finished attics.

* At the base of every stairway leading to the next level.

* Outside each sleeping area within 10 feet.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

Regardless of the home's construction date, CO alarms are required as follows:

* Placement: On every level of the residence, including habitable portions of basements and attics, and within 10 feet of each bedroom door.

* Type: CO alarms can be battery-powered, plug-in with battery backup, hardwired with battery backup, or system type. Combination smoke/CO alarms are acceptable if they meet placement requirements.

Massachusetts Home Inspections does not test residential smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors. In Massachusetts, the local fire department is responsible for inspecting these devices and issuing a compliance certificate. As the buyer, you are not responsible for the installation or certification of these detectors. It is the seller's responsibility to obtain the certificate of compliance prior to closing. This certificate is required in order to close escrow, and it will be provided by the seller at your closing. When you move into your new home, all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will be up to code, as verified by the local fire department.

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Dear David,

I just wanted to write a quick thank-you for the professional and informative job that you did at my home inspection on Monday. As a first time home buyer I was incredibly nervous going into the inspection not knowing what to expect - what should I be asking? What should I be looking for? it was all very overwhelming. However, after the first 15 minutes of the inspection, you quickly put all of my fears to rest!

The way that you took the time to point out and explain to me everything that you were looking for, as well as all of the helpful suggestions that you so freely gave out instantly, had put my mind at ease. I was able to feel that I was in good hands and knew that I had a “Professional” doing the job. This was solidified for me at the end of the inspection when you went over your extensive report with me, item by item ensuring that I fully understood what was there.

Your professionalism and expertise was so greatly appreciated. If ever anyone asks for a recommendation please feel free to give them my name, it would be my pleasure to help put another home buyer’s worried mind to ease by letting them know that with Massachusetts Home Inspections, they can count on a professional job well done.

With Kind Regards,

Karen S.