Periodic Inspection Information

The Building Departments job is to make sure the buildings you occupy are safe and that in the event of an emergency, would allow you the greatest chance of exiting the building safely. To assist in this effort, the state has put some laws on the books to help oversee these safety measures. One of them is the Periodic Inspection of Buildings. MGL Chapter, 30A, Subsection 6, Chapter 233, Subsection 75 and 780 CMR MA Amendments to the International Building Code (10th Edition).

The building official shall inspect periodically existing buildings and structures and parts thereof in accordance with Table 110 (see the related documents), entitled Schedule for Periodic Inspections of Existing Buildings. Such buildings shall not be occupied or continue to be occupied without a valid Certificate of Inspection. Periodic inspections required by this section do not apply to residences operated or licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services and subject to 780 CMR One and Two-family dwellings.

It is the responsibility of the Building Owner to meet these inspection requirements.

The Building Inspector generally will look at the following items. Please note this is a "general list" to give you an idea of the types of things the inspector will be looking at, and it should not be considered an exclusive list.

  • Exit Doors work properly
  • Hard Wired Emergency lights with Battery Backup are in working order
    Required in all Common Areas, defined as all stairways and basement areas accessible to tenants.
  • Exits are clear of obstruction at all times
  • Aisles/Hallways are clear of obstruction at all times
  • Exit signs are clearly visible and illuminated
  • Smoke doors and Fire Doors are kept closed
  • Certificate of inspection is posted
  • Self-closing devices on doors are in working order
  • Sprinkler, Burglar Alarm Systems are in working order and have been tested
  • Handrails are secure
  • Outside egress lights are in working order
  • Rubbish and Flammables are stored properly
  • Unauthorized changes have not been made
  • No storage around electricity and mechanical units
  • Trip hazards
  • Fire extinguisher inspected and up to date (ABC Fire Extinguisher mounted in all Common Areas which are accessible to Tenants)
  • Extension cords not allowed
  • Smoke and heat detectors
  • Fire Escapes (if applicable)

110.7.1 Proof of Maintenance Required by 780 CMR 102.8 (UpCode)

You can apply online through the Town's Online Permitting System.

The fee schedule associated with the online application can be found in the attachments below.

Your current Periodic Inspection Report should be posted in a conspicuous place within the structure it pertains to. If there is not one posted on your property you can call the office at 508-699-0100 ext. 2527 and ask if the property has a current inspection.

Please be advised that noncompliance with this initiative may result in fines of up to $1000, pursuant to MGL Chapter 143, Section 94(a) and 780 CMR, Section 114.4 - Violation / Penalties.

Related Documents

  1. Periodic Inspection Table - 110 Inspections (PDF)
  2. Periodic Inspections Fee Schedule - Updated (PDF)