Massachusetts: the smoke and CO certificate and Title 5 septic inspection

Updated November 2026

Massachusetts sellers need a fire department smoke and carbon monoxide certificate, and homes on septic need a Title 5 inspection. How both work.

Massachusetts has two statewide rules that work like point-of-sale inspections. We have not yet added town-by-town pages for Massachusetts, but the statewide rules apply everywhere.

Smoke and carbon monoxide certificate (M.G.L. c. 148, § 26F)

Before a home is sold or transferred, the local fire department inspects the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms and issues a certificate of compliance. The closing attorney will ask for it. Requirements depend on when the home was built or last renovated, so ask the fire department for its checklist. Each department sets its own fee and scheduling lead time.

Title 5 septic inspection (310 CMR 15.301)

If the home is on a private septic system, a state-certified inspector must inspect it, usually within two years before the sale, or within three years if the system has been pumped every year since. A system that fails generally has to be upgraded, often within two years, and the cost is negotiated between buyer and seller.

What to do

• Call the fire department as soon as you list. Spring schedules fill up.
• If you have a septic system, book the Title 5 inspection before listing so a failure does not surprise a buyer.

This guide summarizes state rules. Confirm details with your fire department, your board of health and your closing attorney.