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General Inspectors / Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Inspectors

The General Inspection Unit schedules and performs smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspections for residential structures involved in real estate transactions. The inspection verifies that both types of detectors are functioning and have been installed in accordance with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 148. Please note that in buildings with six or more dwelling units the Boston Fire Department inspects and issues certificates for carbon monoxide detectors only. In addition, General Inspectors investigate complaints received from either the public or other agencies regarding potential violations of applicable laws, codes and regulations.

Contact Us

Phone: 617-343-2191 - Note: Smoke and Carbon Monixde Detector Inspections cannot be scheduled on this line.
Fax: 617-343-2197
Questions regarding previously requested smoke detector inspections can be e-mailed to: smokedetector.bfd@cityofboston.gov

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Inspections and Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I schedule a Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Inspection?: Use the online form or schedule in person at 1010 Massachusetts Ave., 4th Floor
Inspections are scheduled on a first come first serve basis only. We require a minimum of ten business days notice to schedule an inspection, and your preferred inspection days are not guaranteed.

How long is the Inspection Certificate valid for?: The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Inspection Certificate is only valid for 90 days from the date the inspection was performed.

What days are you in my neighborhood?: Please remember our inspectors are in your neighborhood every day. Inspectors are in the neighborhoods from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 12:30 to 3:00 PM.We do not do inspections in the afternoon in Allston, Brighton and East Boston.

What is the inspection fee?

At the time of inspection, please have a money order payable to the City of Boston for the correct amount.

Single or a condo unit	$50.00
Two Units	$100.00
Three – Six Units*	$150.00
More than Six Units*	$500.00

*In buildings with six or more dwelling units the Boston Fire Department inspects and issues certificates for carbon monoxide detectors only.

Where do I locate my smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?

According to the Seventh Edition of 780 CMR: BUILDING PLANNING FOR SINGLE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS (Effective 1/1/08) with the appropriate sections cited below they are placed as follows:

Carbon Monoxide Detector Regulations

Smoke Detector Regulations

Smoke Detector Quick Reference Chart

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cityofboston.gov - Official Web Site of the City of Boston - Thomas M. Menino, Mayor

General Inspectors / Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Inspectors

Contact Us

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Inspections and Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

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