Massachusetts smoke and carbon detector laws require a seller to get a certificate of compliance for their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before the transfer of a property.
Smoke and CO detectors save lives. Massachusetts law helps provide properly working detectors in the event of a fire or emission of carbon monoxide in a home. It is your responsibility as a homeowner to keep the smoke and carbons in compliance during your ownership for maximum protection for your family.
Preparing for Your Certificate Of Compliance
Getting a certificate of compliance for your smoke and CO detectors starts with getting organized the minute you put your home under agreement. Start the process immediately so if there are any issues you have time to resolve them.
- Determine the age and style of your home and if there are any recent renovations.
- Map out where you currently have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
- Refer to the Guide to Massachusetts Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Requirements When Selling a One- or Two- Family Residence for the appropriate requirements for your home.
- Check and replace any detectors you have for proper placement, type, and working order.
- If you have any questions refer to your local fire department. Your listing agent can also be a resource as well.
- Replace, change batteries and/or add detectors as necessary for the age of your home. If necessary, hire a licensed electrician to make sure your home will be compliant.
- As soon as you believe you are compliant contact your local fire department to schedule your inspection. There will be a charge of typically $25-75 for your local fire department to inspect and issue a Certificate of Compliance. Typically the fire prevention office handles smoke detector certificates in your town.
- Save the original Certificate, send a copy to the closing attorney and bring the original to the closing.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Laws Are Always Changing
Massachusetts laws regarding your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are always changing. Don’t assume that because they were recently compliant that they are compliant now. Check before schedule your inspection.
Recent laws require battery operated only equipment to have a 10 year sealed battery so they cannot be tampered with and detectors left as inoperable.
Also, any combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be voice-activated. The voice differentiates whether it is a fire emergency or a carbon monoxide emergency.
Be pro-active and don’t let your certificate of compliance for your smoke and carbons hold you up at closing.
Read the section of the state pamphlet that is appropriate for the age of your home. Carefully and make sure you are following the instruction for your age home. Something as simple as a Certificate of Compliance can hang up closing on your home.
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