What Are NH Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements When Buying a Home?

🏡 What Are NH Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements When Buying a Home?

Before a home can change hands in New Hampshire — whether in Plymouth, Campton, Rumney, Thornton, or anywhere across Central NH — it must meet the state’s smoke detector and carbon monoxide (CO) detector requirements.

Here’s what buyers need to know before closing.

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Smoke Detector Requirements in New Hampshire

New Hampshire requires:

✔ Working smoke detectors on every level of the home

✔ A smoke detector inside every bedroom

✔ A smoke detector outside sleeping areas (within 10 feet of bedrooms)

✔ Hardwired detectors in newer construction (battery OK in older homes unless remodeled)

All detectors must be functional at the time of sale.

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Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements in NH

CO detectors are required in:

✔ Any home with oil, gas, wood, or pellet heat

✔ Any home with an attached garage

✔ Any multi-level home where fuel-burning appliances exist

They must be placed:

✔ On every level of the home

✔ Outside all sleeping areas

Battery-powered, plug-in, or hardwired models all meet NH standards as long as they are operational.

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Who Is Responsible for Compliance Before Closing?

Sellers in NH must ensure:

✔ All smoke and CO detectors are installed

✔ They are working properly

✔ No expired detectors (CO detectors typically last 5–7 years)

Buyers should verify this during:

✔ Home inspection

✔ Final walk-through

✔ Any repair negotiations

Missing detectors are one of the most common items flagged in NH inspections.

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Common Issues Found in NH Homes

These are frequently noted in Central NH inspections:

⚠ Missing detectors on basement or attic levels

⚠ CO detectors plugged into switched outlets

⚠ Expired or yellowed detectors

⚠ Detectors older than 10 years (end of life)

⚠ Wrong placement in older homes and cabins

These are usually inexpensive fixes but must be addressed before closing.

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Q&A

Q: Who installs detectors — the buyer or seller?

A: Sellers almost always handle this, since it’s required for closing.

Q: Does NH require combo smoke/CO detectors?

A: Not required, but allowed. Many inspectors recommend them for convenience.

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Keywords

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Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com