Massachusetts requires smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every dwelling. Somerville Fire Department inspects before any sale or transfer of residential property under MGL c.148 s.26F.
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 148 Section 26F (smoke detectors) and Section 26F one-half (carbon monoxide detectors), every residential dwelling must have working detectors on every level and outside each sleeping area. For one and two family homes built before 1975, battery-powered detectors are acceptable. Newer construction and multifamily buildings require hardwired, interconnected photoelectric or dual-sensor detectors with battery backup. Before any sale or transfer of residential property in Somerville, the Somerville Fire Department must inspect and issue a Certificate of Compliance. Inspection fee in Somerville is approximately 50 dollars for single family and scales up. Landlords are required to maintain detectors in rental units.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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