The Small Oversight That Causes Big Delays: Why Working Smoke & CO Detectors Matter in Every Home Sale

When preparing a home for sale, most sellers focus on the big-ticket items—staging, cleaning, touch-up paint, landscaping, and repairs. But one of the most common issues that can delay an appraisal, stall closing, or require a last-minute scramble is surprisingly small: missing or non-functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

It seems simple. It is simple. Yet it happens all the time.

And because lenders and appraisers treat safety features as non-negotiable, overlooking this detail can cost sellers valuable time and create avoidable stress during escrow.

Why Smoke and CO Detectors Matter in the Appraisal Process

During an appraisal, safety and habitability features are just as important as property value. Appraisers are required to confirm that the home meets basic safety standards, and working detectors are at the top of that list.

If smoke or CO detectors are missing, outdated, or non-functional, the appraiser must mark them as a required repair. That triggers additional steps, such as:

• A return visit from the appraiser

• A re-inspection fee

• Delays in loan approval

• Escrow extensions

• Potential renegotiations if deadlines can’t be met

This can turn into an unnecessary hiccup—especially when everything else is in perfect order.

Why This Issue Is So Common

Even responsible homeowners often forget about detector maintenance. Many systems are old, have expired, or are disabled because the beeping was a nuisance.

Other times, detectors were removed temporarily for painting or renovations and never reinstalled. In some cases, the seller assumes that detectors are still working simply because they look intact.

But appraisers don’t take chances. If a detector isn’t present where required—or doesn’t respond correctly—it's considered a safety fail.

What Sellers Need to Do Before Listing

Fortunately, this is one of the easiest, least expensive steps homeowners can take to ensure a smooth appraisal and closing.

Here’s what to check:

1. Install detectors in all required locations

Regulations vary slightly by state, but in most areas, smoke detectors are required in:

• Each bedroom

• Hallways outside bedrooms

• Every level of the home

CO detectors are usually required:

• Near sleeping areas

• On each level of the home

• Anywhere there is a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage

2. Test every unit

Press and hold the test button to ensure it emits a loud, continuous alarm. Anything less than full volume is a red flag.

3. Replace old detectors

Most detectors have a lifespan of 7–10 years. If you can’t remember when yours were last replaced, it’s safer—and smarter—to install new ones.

4. Ensure correct placement

Detectors shouldn’t be painted over, tucked inside closets, or placed so close to vents that they malfunction.

5. Use combination units for convenience

Modern devices often combine smoke and carbon monoxide detection in one sleek unit, making installation and maintenance easier.

How This Simple Step Protects Your Timeline

Real estate transactions rely heavily on timing. A missing $20 detector can derail a carefully planned closing schedule and create unnecessary back-and-forth with lenders, agents, buyers, and the appraiser.

By spending a few minutes checking your smoke and CO detectors before listing, you:

• Avoid appraisal re-inspections

• Prevent delays in loan processing

• Keep your closing on track

• Present your home as safe, updated, and well maintained

Small detail. Big impact.

Final Thoughts

In a competitive market, the smoothest transactions stand out. Buyers appreciate homes that reflect care and foresight. And appraisers look for properties that meet every safety requirement without hiccups.

Missing or non-working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are easy to fix—but they’re also one of the most common reasons for avoidable delays.

By taking this quick step early, sellers can protect their timeline, reduce stress, and move confidently toward a successful closing.

If you’d like a simple pre-listing safety checklist or help preparing your home for the market, I’d be happy to share more resources.