Reading, MA · Middlesex County
Fire Escape and Fire Balcony Affidavit
This affidavit certifies that a fire escape or other listed egress component was inspected and is believed to comply with the Massachusetts State Building Code, for submission to Reading’s Building Commissioner.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
Use this form to report an inspection of a fire escape, exterior bridge, egress connecting balconies, or wooden stairways at a property in Reading. The person completing it identifies the component and location, provides owner and inspector details, and certifies the component’s condition to the best of their knowledge. The form states that certification is required every five years by a registered professional engineer, licensed fire escape installer, or another qualified individual acceptable to the Building Official; a copy of the applicable license must be provided.
Who needs it
A property owner or qualified inspector uses this form to certify an inspected egress component and provide the required credentials to Reading’s Building Commissioner.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Affidavit
Get the Fire Escape and Fire Balcony Affidavit from the Town of Reading.
- 2
Complete the Form
Identify the inspected component and location, enter the requested owner and inspector details, and provide the required license copy.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Arrange a remote notarization appointment and have identification ready.
- 4
- 5
Submit to the Town
Send the completed affidavit and license copy to Reading’s Building Commissioner.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Reading. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I complete the fire escape affidavit?
- Identify the inspected egress component and its location, complete the owner and inspector information, provide a copy of the required license, then take the oath before a notary and submit the form.
- Do I need to sign the affidavit in front of a notary?
- Yes. The form says the named person makes an oath that the statement is true and includes a notary block. Sign before the notary administers the oath.
- Can I use a commissioned online notary?
- Massachusetts permanently authorized remote online notarization for its own notaries effective January 1, 2024. A commissioned online notary may notarize remotely; check with Reading’s Building Division about accepting the completed form.
- How often is this certification required?
- The form states that certification is required every five years by a registered professional engineer, licensed fire escape installer, or another qualified individual acceptable to the Building Official. Confirm with the city or town clerk if unsure.