The Jackson Township Fire Department has announced new procedures for mandatory fire safety certifications required during the sale of homes in the township. The change aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
The new certification process mandates that property owners schedule an inspection with the local fire bureau before selling their homes. The inspection will cover smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Upon passing the inspection, a six-month certificate will be issued, which must be presented at the closing of the property sale.
Homeowners can find detailed instructions on the Jackson Township website under the Building Department section, as well as on the fire districts’ websites. To begin, sellers must determine their fire district using an online tool that provides district information based on the property address. Jackson Township is divided into three fire districts, each with its own Bureau of Fire Prevention.
Michael Grossman, head of the Bureau of Fire Safety District 3, outlined the process, emphasizing the need for property owners to know their fire district before proceeding with the application. After determining the appropriate fire district, sellers must fill out an application, which includes personal details, property information, and preferred inspection dates.
Inspections are scheduled for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Fees for the certification vary based on the timing of the request: $100 for 15 or more business days in advance, $200 for 10 to 14 business days, $300 for 5 to 9 business days, and $400 for 1 to 4 business days, subject to availability. A $50 fee will be charged for re-inspections if the property fails the initial inspection, and a duplicate certificate will cost $25.
The fire department highlighted the importance of the presence of an adult during the inspection, as inspectors will not enter homes unattended. Pets must be secured away from the inspection area.
Failure to obtain the necessary certification before closing will result in a $1,500 fine. The township stressed the importance of securing the certificate to avoid any delays or penalties.
For more information, homeowners are encouraged to visit the Jackson Township website or contact their local fire bureau directly.