Are Smoke Detectors Required When Selling a House? Don’t be Alarmed, Be Informed

Did you know that, according to data from the U.S. Fire Administration, home fires have resulted in 1,047 fatalities so far this year? In fact, the highest risk of fatality from all structure fires stems from fires within one- and two-family residences, according to the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA). On average, firefighters across the country are called to respond to a fire incident every 24 seconds — and once a minute, a fire breaks out within a structure.

Pretty scary, right? But as terrifying as those numbers can be, homeowners still may not be familiar with how smoke detectors work, local regulations, or what’s required for a real estate transaction. Real estate agents are often asked, “Are smoke detectors required when selling a house?”

What should I know about smoke detectors before I sell my home?

We asked one of Massachusetts’ top-selling real estate agents, Nelson Zide, to weigh in on this topic.

In Massachusetts, it is required by law that every seller must provide a passed smoke detector certificate from the local fire department.

So, how do you know if you live in a state where smoke detectors are (or are not) required when selling a house? Keep reading, and we’ll shed some light on that and more. When it comes time to put your house on the market, you’ll have a better understanding of this topic for a smoother sale and a safer home.