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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Hi Dave,

I just wanted to write a quick thank you for your work inspecting 43 1/2 Bartholomew Street in Peabody yesterday. As a buyer in the process of trying to purchase my first home, it's been difficult to know who to trust. I honestly cannot believe some of the stuff I've run into, so I had to write & let you know that I found you professional, competent, & all around above par. In all of the people I've had to deal with up to this point, you were one of the few that actually took the time to explain things in a way that an inexperienced first time home buyer would understand. I never once felt rushed or talked down to.

Based on your inspection, I've decided not to purchase the home at 43 1/2 Bartholomew Street. I will however, continue to look & will hopefully find a house more suited to my needs in the near future. When that happens I will be calling on your expertise once again. In the meantime, I will certainly recommend you to any of my family & friends that may need a home inspection.

Thanks again,

Lisa G.