Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Maintenance
As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe living environment, we are initiating a mandatory inspection for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all residences. This inspection is in compliance with legal requirements outlined in Massachusetts General Law, chapter 148 section 26F½, and 527 CMR 1.00:13.7.6.
Certificate of Compliance
Massachusetts General Law mandates the proper installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors upon the sale or transfer of certain homes. Additionally, industry practice dictates that purchase and sale agreements for all residential properties require a Certificate of Compliance. Please ensure that you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed.
*M.G.L. c 148 s. 26F – The Law Massachusetts General Law, chapter 148 section 26F mandates that upon the sale or transfer of certain homes, the seller must install approved smoke alarms. These requirements apply to residences that were built or modified prior to creation of the Massachusetts State Building Code (January 1, 1975). If a building was built or has undergone renovation, addition or modification after Jan. 1, 1975, the date the building permit was issued determines the smoke alarms requirements of the building code.
To facilitate this process, we strongly recommend having a qualified technician inspect your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you already have a technician engaged for this purpose, kindly ensure and provide proof the inspection is completed within the specified timeframe.
In the event that you do not have a designated technician, Skyline Realty will appoint one on your behalf to ensure compliance with the regulations. This appointment will be scheduled at a convenient time for you, and we will coordinate all necessary details. If you would like us to coordinate an inspection for you please contact admin@skylinerealty.com.
This serves as your annual reminder to check the expiry date of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It is our duty to inform you about the mandatory requirements for the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with Massachusetts General Law. Please carefully review the following information to ensure compliance and avoid potential code violations:
Smoke Alarm Requirements
Please ensure that smoke alarms are installed according to the following specification per MA state Law:
- Inside each bedroom (MA State Building Code 780- CMR).
- On the ceiling at the base of each stairway leading (If applicable).
- On every habitable level (basements included).
- Outside each separate sleeping area.
- In common areas, shared by residents.
Types of smoke detectors that may be installed:
Photoelectric smoke alarms
- Use light to detect smoke, more effective in detecting smoldering fires.
- Which have been attributed to more fires involving death.
- Household fire warning systems (low voltage or wireless low voltage systems) only use photoelectric detectors.
Ionization smoke detectors
- Use radiation to detect smoke.
- More effective in detecting flaming fires.
- Increase the risk of nuisance alarms caused by steam or cooking smoke.
Please note that it is crucial to replace all battery-powered alarms over ten(10) years old, and all new alarms must be ten(10) years, sealed, non-rechargeable, and non-replaceable battery type.
The manufacturer’s date is located on the back of the smoke alarm. Carefully remove the alarm from its mounting bracket to check the date. If there is no date marked, then the alarm is more than 10 years old. If the date indicates it was manufactured more than 10 years ago, replace it with a new alarm that meets the requirements identified in this guide.
Code Violations
To prevent code violations, please take note of the following:
- No keyed bedroom door locks.
- Ensure all means of egress are clear of debris.
- For 3 to 5-unit occupancies, hard-wired, interconnected detectors are required in common. stairways and basements.
For 6-unit and up, additional requirements include:
- Fire Alarm panel, Central Station, or Master Box.
- A Master Box is preferred for units exceeding 12.
- Installation of Knox Box at the front entrance.
It is Important to note that for all 6-units and up residential occupancies must undergo an annual Fire Alarm Inspection conducted by a licensed Fire Alarm Technician. Proof of a current, active inspection completed within the past 12 months is required on the day of inspection.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas. It is produced by the incomplete burning of solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels.
Appliances fueled with natural gas, liquefied petroleum (LP gas), oil, kerosene, coal, or wood may produce CO. Burning charcoal produces CO. Running cars produce CO.
A carbon monoxide detector/alarm can provide added protection against CO poisoning, but is not a substitute for proper installation. Never use gas appliances such as ranges, ovens, or clothes dryers for heating your home.
Location of detectors:
- Please ensure that the installation of carbon monoxide detectors are on every level of the residence, within 10(ft) of each bedroom door, as well as inside any inhabitable basements and attics.
- Do not place detectors in kitchens or within 5(ft) of stoves, ovens, and areas where household chemicals are stored.
- Do not place detectors in bathrooms or in a close proximity to an automobile exhaust pipe.
- The temperature of the location must be between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Make sure that the detector is not covered up by furniture or draperies.
Carbon monoxide alarms are required as follows:
- Combination alarms (photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide alarm) may be used.
- Combination alarms must have both a tone and simulated voice alarm to distinguish the type of emergency.
- May be either battery powered, plug-in with battery backup, hardwired with battery backup, or system type. – Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.
- Combination alarms must have both a tone and simulated voice alarm to distinguish the type of emergency.
**Responding to a residential carbon monoxide incident**
If the alarm of your carbon monoxide detector sounds, immediately open windows and doors for ventilation, turn off any fuel-burning appliances, and operate the reset button on the device. Please note, you should never ignore the carbon monoxide alarm.
If any one in the home is experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (a list of the symptoms can be found here). Immediately evacuate the home, call the local fire department and seek medical attention. If no one is experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, continue to ventilate, turn off fuel-burning appliances and have them inspected by a qualified technician. For urgent maintenance requests that require immediate attention, please call our emergency line at 617-547-8700
Once more, if you do not currently have a technician, Skyline Realty will arrange for one on your behalf. Please refrain from operating any fuel-burning appliances until you have successfully identified the source of the issue.
Your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines is highly appreciated as it contributes to the overall safety and well-being of our community. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate contact us at admin@skylinerealty.com
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
The Skyline Realty Team