Compliance - Residential Alarms

Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Certificate of Compliance:

Whenever a home is sold in Massachusetts, it is required to be inspected by the local Fire Department for properly working smoke alarms, as well as carbon monoxide alarms.  The smoke alarm law in Massachusetts has been in place for decades, and it is designed to save lives.  A property cannot change ownership without a certificate being issued by the local Fire Department.  Carbon monoxide alarms are required in any residence that has fossil-fuel burning equipment including, but not limited to, a furnace, boiler, water heater, fireplace or any other apparatus, appliance or device, or has enclosed parking within its structure.

Alarms Inspection:

The inspection for both the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can be done by the Wayland Fire Department.  Certificates of Compliance are valid for sixty (60) days.  The Certificate of Compliance is needed at the closing of the sale.  The lender's attorney will most certainly ask for this document, and you will not be able to close on your property without it.  The Town of Wayland charges a fee of $50.00 for this compliance inspection.  Our Department can assist you with any questions or concerns you might have on compliance with both smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm requirements.  To arrange for an inspection or if you have any questions, please contact the Wayland Fire Department at (508) 358-7951.

Requirements When Selling a One- or Two-Family Residence:

The Board of Fire Prevention Regulations (BFPR) adopted revised smoke alarm regulations that went into effect December 1, 2016.  The changes apply only to one- and two-family residences built before January 1, 1975 that have not been substantially altered.  If built or altered after that date, the smoke alarm requirements are established by the State Building Code.  Working smoke alarms installed prior to December 1, 2016 (that met requirements) can continue to be used until they are 10 years old or have exceeded the manufacturer’s recommended life.  Please review the guides below for more information:

Visit the Department of Fire Service's Smoke Alarm Regulations page for additional details.

Guidelines Chart