As every real estate agent ( and hopefully seller) knows, in order to get to the closing table
you must provide closing agent ( attorney in R.I.) with a smoke and carbon monoxide cerifcate
thats proves that your property has functioning and properly installed "carbons and smokes".
This is (almost always) the reponsibilty of the seller . However, there comes a time ( for one reason or another) that we as
realtors take on this duty for a specific property. Perhaps the seller is unable to physically perform this task , they are out of town, or it
is a bank owned property.
Well, today was one of those days for me. last minute i received notice (on a "short sale" property ) that we
needed to close asap. So, I immediately contacted the fire marshall in the town and he was kind enough to meet me asap.
of course, if the fire marshall shows up and the smokes and carbons are NOT functioning , Missing or even
(VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW!!)- OVER 10 YEARS OLD- then you do not get the certificate
and many fire marshalls will charge you and make you reschedule.
well, I was prepared and I am writing this blog post, so sellers can prepare themself for this
stage of the game. here is a list to be certain you are ready when the fire marshall shows up
with that ( ever important) smoke and carbon certificate.
1. find out where your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detctors should be located in your home.
2. Be certain that already installed carbons and smokes are UNDER 10 years old.
3. if you need to install new ones, buy the right ones. (hard wire replaces hardwire )
4. you can buy combo ( smoke and carbon detectors for approx. $37.00 or individuallyand save a little cash.
5. BEST TIP - when installing, i prefer to use sheet rock screws instead of the screws they give you in the packet. makes it MUCH
easier to install.
materials needed sheet rock screws screws that come with smokes
6. most importantly, complete and schedule this task 2 weeks prior to close if you can and remember the town/city will charge you
$30 for this certificate and some cities/towns require a certified check. NO CASH payments. find out when you call to schedule
inspection.
Oh yeah, more than likely if you made it this far, your CLOSING is right around the corner. YEEEESSSS!!!!
