Condominiums, single family and two-family residences sold in MA must be inspected by the fire department to confirm the proper installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. They then issue a smoke certificate required for the closing. It is important for property owners to understand the MA smoke detector rules and different kinds of smoke detectors in order to comply (regardless of whether they are selling their property).
Different Kinds Of Smoke Detectors
There are two different kinds of smoke detectors, ionization and photoelectric. Each one has different pros and cons relating to recognizing smoke and flames.
Ionization Technology
Ionization detectors contain two electrodes and a constant current that runs between them. The presence of smoke interferes with this current which causes the alarm to sound. Ionization detectors are good at detecting flaming fires but does not discriminate between smoke and steam. Therefore, they are likely to issue false alarms if placed near kitchens and baths.
Photoelectric Technology
Photoelectric smoke detectors have a beam of light. The presence of smoke or fire can break up this beam and activate the alarm. It is very effective at detecting smoldering fire and is less sensitive to false alarms from cooking or shower steam.
MA Smoke Detector Rules
MA laws determine the types and installation of smoke detectors in residential properties. The details vary based on when a property was built or renovated. The following are the general guidelines on the location of smoke detectors within a property.
| Placement | before 1975 | 1975 to Aug. 27, 1997 | after Aug. 27, 1997 | on or after Jan. 1, 2008 | on or after Feb. 4, 2011 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Hardwired or Battery |
Hardwired Interconnected |
Hardwired Interconnected Battery Backup |
Hardwired Interconnected Battery Backup |
Hardwired Interconnected Battery Backup |
| Every Level of Living | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bottom of Each Stairwell | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Outside Each Sleeping Area | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum 1 for Every 1,200 sq.ft. Finished Space per Floor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Inside All Bedrooms | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| In Basement | Yes | ||||
| Bottom of Each Stairwell to a finished level | Yes | ||||
| Within 20ft. of Kitchens/Baths | Photoelectric | Photoelectric | Photoelectric | Photoelectric | |
| Outside of 20ft. of Kitchens/Baths | Both Ionization & Photoelectric | Photoelectric OR Dual | Photoelectric |
Additional Details
Additional laws on MA smoke detector rules may be viewed at http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dfs/dfs2/osfm/fire-prev/smoke-alarm-regulations.html. Please note that the above information is just an summary, must not be interpreted as legal advice and is subject to change without notice. Additionally, cities and towns may maintain additional laws above state mandated ones. Contact your local fire department for full and current information for your property. For further information contact Christopher Graves at Emery Federal Credit Union via phone at 978-376-5389 or email christopher.d.graves@gmail.com.