Smoke alarms are required as follows:
- On every habitable level of the residence.
- In the basement.
- On the ceiling at the base of each stairway leading to a floor above including the basement (but not within stairways).
- On the ceiling outside each separate sleeping area (within 10 feet)
- Must be photoelectric. (Can be in combination with ionization or carbon monoxide.)
- May be battery-powered, hardwired, or a combination of both.
- Smoke alarms cannot be more than 10 years old or exceed the manufacturer’s recommended life, whichever comes first.
- New or Replacement detectors, must be 10 year sealed battery detectors
- – In two-family dwellings, smoke alarms are required in common areas shared by residents.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms:
Since March 31, 2006, carbon monoxide alarms have been required in all residences that have either: fossil fuel burning equipment or an attached enclosed garage. This law applied to all such residences whether or not the residence is being sold or transferred.
- Carbon Monoxide Detector required on every level including the basement
(Can be a combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detector but must have voice activation) - Within 10 feet of a bedroom
- Must be battery, or hardwired or in combination with smoke alarm
- Cannot be more then 10 years old
To Schedule a Smoke Detector Inspection:
Call Hanson Fire Headquarters the day you want the inspection done around 8am: (781)293-9571 to schedule a time that day. (We do not preschedule smoke detector inspections)
For more info on Scheduling/Requirements/Fees please click here to return to the previous page.