JoAnna Siminerio, Manalapan Marlboro NJ Real Estate

One of the most popular questions I get from buyers looking to make a move to the Manalapan/Marlboro area is "how are the schools?" I have two children who are currently enrolled in the Manalapan Elementary and Monmouth County Vocational school systems. To date, the school districts I've experienced have not let me down and in fact, have far exceeded my expectations.

When my daughter was graduating middle school, I couldn't believe the variety of choices she had for where to go to high school. There truly is "something for everyone." Admission to some programs is based on academic testing/grades and others could be based on a written essay, interview or even an audition! Some programs have pre-requisite courses that need to be taken in middle school. Parents should familiarize yourself with these programs when their children are in 7th grade so you can make the best choices when considering their classes for 8th grade.

Alternatively, children can go to the schools they are zoned for based on their mailing address. Keep in mind, the town you live in is not necessarily the high school for which you are zoned!! There are parts of Manalapan Township where the children go to Freehold Township High School and parts of Marlboro and Freehold Township where the kids will go to Colts Neck High School! Here is a link to a guide for streets that are not zoned for their hometown high schools.

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The Freehold Regional High School District is a public regional school district serving students in grades 9-12 from eight communities in western Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States. The district, consisting of six high schools, is the largest regional high school district in the state of New Jersey. The district serves students from Colts Neck Township, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell Township, Manalapan Township and Marlboro Township.

The curriculum at each of the high schools is the same for all academic subjects. A high priority is placed on student performance and staff accountability. More than 87 percent of the students pursue higher education, including the most prestigious colleges in the nation. At all of the high schools, SAT scores consistently exceed state and national averages, and HSPA scores at all schools are well above state averages.

Students living within zone of The Freehold Regional High School District are offered more than just the opportunity for an award winning high school education. Students are given the option to participate in one of the specialized Learning Centers, Academies or perhaps attend one of the career oriented schools of the award winning Monmouth County Vocational School District. Note: The Freehold Regional High School District provides bussing for all Academy, Learning Center and Vocational School District students.

Learning Centers are four-year programs of academic study offered to a selected group of highly motivated students who have demonstrated interests and abilities in particular fields of study. Students and faculty of a particular program join together to form a unique learning community located within the comprehensive high school setting. All Learning Centers include in depth study of targeted courses on an advanced level, with many courses meeting the requirements of Advanced Placement or college level work. Learning Center courses fall under traditional academic disciplines such as science, math, social studies, and language. However the four-year sequence of course work combines to make an integrated and interdisciplinary academic experience for students. The centers address the core skills, knowledge and values that are essential to success in high school and in preparation for acceptance to a competitive four-year college or university. All 8th grade students from a sending high school in our district are eligible to apply. Click the program name for a short video describing the program.

Business Administration - Marlboro High School

The Business Administration Learning Center, offers a four-year program to talented, high achieving students who wish to pursue their interests in business administration and management. Courses include Economic Geography, Business Law, American Economic History I & II, AP Economics, Business Computer Systems, Business Principles & Applications, Accounting, and an Entrepreneurship Seminar. Classroom activities are augmented with guest lectures, field experiences, and close affiliations with business and industry. Opportunities for counseling and career orientation to colleges and universities are available. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade.

Humanities - Howell High School

The Scholars' Center for the Humanities, offers a four-year program that assists highly talented and motivated students to develop advanced research skills, superior analytical and critical thinking skills, and sophisticated written and verbal communication skills while studying the many facets of American culture. Students experience an intensive, interdisciplinary approach to the liberal arts through course work in literature, arts, history, cultures, philosophy, and research strategies.

Contemporary Global Issues - Freehold Township High School

The focus of this program is an intensive study of global regions, international challenges, cultures, economies and governments. Students with an interest in international development, diplomacy and world order are challenged with an accelerated and unique curriculum within the high school experience. A comprehensive language program enables students to gain proficiency in a world language. Seniors in the program participate in a culminating independent research project exploring an international problem and presenting their findings and recommendations at the Contemporary Global Issues Research Symposium.

Medical Sciences - Freehold High School

The Medical Sciences Learning Center, offers a four-year program for students interested in the medical and natural sciences. Students work and study in a creative environment, invigorated by contact with specialists in the science and health care fields. Advanced program curricula includes Lab Biology, Math, Research, Statistics, Introduction to Computers, Chemistry; Biochemistry/ Cell Physiology, Calculus, Anatomy/Physiology, and Human Genetics. The program enables students to develop research and process skills, which serve as an excellent preparation for future training in the health science. Articulation with medical and research facilities prepare students for an extensive junior year research project. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8th grade.

Science and Engineering - Manalapan High School

Science and Engineering offers a 4-year program of interdisciplinary studies for gifted students interested in pursuing careers in mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences. Working with specialists who promote creativity, students receive an accelerated preparation in science, math, computer science, and electronics. The program includes courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics C&C E/M, Statistics, Calculus BC, Multi Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra, Computer Science., Algebra II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Electronics. The program of study culminates in a full year of research in 12th grade that focuses on specific areas of interest, e.g.: robotics; engineering design; laser technology; chaos theory; and artificial intelligence. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade

Law and Public Service - Colts Neck High School

The Center for Law and Public Service, is a four-year program for students with demonstrated interests and abilities in history, politics, government, law, volunteerism and leadership. Targeted skills for development include problem solving, critical thinking and reading, written and oral communication, research, and organization. The values of citizenship, justice, and service serve as the foundation for academic study. Students study history as it relates to the development of the US and the evolution of world societies and governments, as well as political thought, ethical philosophy, and leadership theory. Special attention is given to NJ history and civic affairs. Skills and knowledge are enhanced by active experiences in volunteerism and public service on the school, local, state and national levels. Career opportunities are explored during externships in government offices, volunteer agencies, police departments, and emergency and fire services.

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To help you decide if a Learning Center is right for you, ask yourself the following questions. Your responses will help you to decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my grades in the subjects that are the academic focus of the learning center demonstrate that I am ready to accept the challenge of the program?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance the demands of accelerated classes while still participating in sports, clubs, hobbies and other extra-curricular activities?

Do my personal interests match the focus of the learning center?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to Business Administration, Science and Engineering, and the Medical Science Learning Centers?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Have my scores on standardized tests been strong?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

Academy programs are four-year programs of specialized coursework and experiences for students who have a particular career interest. The programs integrate career and technical courses in addition to the traditional academic curriculum. Students who attend our academies benefit from being part of a career-oriented learning community while at the same time being a fully participating student within a comprehensive high school. The academy environment encourages students to engage in meaningful learning activities that are relevant to real-world settings. Students who attend academies are prepared to directly enter the work force where they can immediately use the knowledge and skills; attend a post-secondary technical program; or attend a two or four year college.

Animal and Botanical Science - Freehold Township High School

The Animal and Botanical Academy is a four-year program covering topics such as floral and landscape design, plant and animal science, greenhouse production, food science, and natural resources management. The program consists of three integral parts: classroom instruction, supervised Agricultural Education (SAE), and participation in National Organization for Agriculture Education, (FFA). Participation in these organizations provides students with an opportunity to build leadership skills, serve the community, and explore career opportunities. An articulation agreement with Mercer County Community College allows students to earn college credits for courses completed while attending the Animal and Botanical Program.

Computer Science - Freehold High School

The Computer Science Academy is designed for students interested in exploring the fields of Computer Science or Computer Engineering. The first two years emphasize the basic components of Computer Science and various programming languages. Specialized math courses, combining Geometry, Algebra and Discrete Math, are integrated into the curriculum. Junior/senior classes are equivalent to second and third year computer science courses at the college level. A prerequisite for program admission is enrollment in and the satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the eighth grade with a "B" or better average.

Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management - Freehold High School

The Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management Academy is a four-year career exploration program that prepares students for employment in the hospitality industry, as well as admission to college or post-secondary culinary schools. Courses include specialized math and science and "hands-on" work experience in menu planning and food preparation. Students gain real work experience through the operation of the 5-Star Cafe - a fully licensed restaurant in Freehold High School. This unique program, designed for students with a wide range of ability levels, offers an opportunity to be successful in both academic and skill performance components

Fine and Performing Arts – Howell High School

The Fine and Performing Arts Learning Center, located at Howell High School, provides an opportunity for highly motivated students to channel and further develop their interests and talents in the arts. The center prepares students for further training and/or performance at colleges/ conservatories by developing self-discipline, analytical/ critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for all the arts. A four- year sequence of classes is offered in the following majors: Acting, Dance, Entertainment Technology-Video, and Entertainment Technology-Music. Class work is augmented with field trips, lectures, and master classes offered by visiting artists. Students participate in a variety of creative and performance opportunities.

Navy JROTC Character and Leadership Development – Colts Neck High School

This four year course of study encompasses three main subject areas: Leadership, Naval Science, and Physical Training. The Leadership curriculum develops skills in study, time management, and personal leadership, as well as self-discipline and self-reliance. The roles and capabilities of the U.S. Armed Forces, particularly sea power, shipboard life, national security and naval history are reviewed. Cadets learn military customs, courtesies, drills, ceremonies and respect for the flag, and develop a sense of patriotism through community and school service. The leadership value of fitness is reinforced with weekly physical training. This is a dynamic opportunity for students to develop leadership qualities in a nurturing and exciting environment.

Law Enforcement and Public Safety (LEPS) – Manalapan High School

This program is a highly focused program for students with specific interests in law enforcement, fire fighting, homeland security and emergency preparation and response. Course study includes criminal justice, civics, law enforcement, physical training, forensic and fire science. Students will receive training in various public safety areas. Skills and knowledge are further enhanced by active participation in volunteer programs and frequent articulation with local police and volunteer agencies.

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To help you decide if an Academy is right for you, ask yourself the following questions. Your responses will help you decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my personal and career interests match the focus of the academy?

Have I participated in classes, after school activities, hobbies or other activities that demonstrate that I have had some experience with the focus of the academy?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance my interests and my required school work and be successful at both?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to the Computer Science Academy?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Can I identify one other professional who has knowledge of my performing arts talent and who will provide me with an excellent recommendation for FPAA and for JROTC?

Am I willing to participate in an audition for FPAA and/or an interview for JROTC?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

The Monmouth County Vocational School District Academies are a collection of theme-based public schools. These competitive admission academies are open to all 9th grade students in Monmouth County. The MCVSD prepares students for an evolving workplace and further education through achievement of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards at all grade levels in specialized academic, career and technical programs and lifelong learning opportunities.

Academy of Allied Health & Science (AAHS)

The Academy of Allied Health and Science prepares and motivates students to pursue further education towards a career in the medical sciences through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships, inspiring students to serve society with compassion, skill and vision.

This specialized high school Is located in Neptune Township, in close proximity to Jersey Shore Medical Center and other Health Care facilities. AAHS provides a Continuous Program of College Preparatory Course work for students who are interested in exploring careers in the health and medical sciences with a heavy emphasis on the use of computer technology in the Allied Health field.

Biotechnology High School (BTHS)

Located in Freehold Township, Biotechnology High School provides a collaborative learning environment with a life science focus that prepares students for higher education, the evolving workplace, and citizenship in the global community through a challenging curriculum, exploration of scholarly research, design and implementation of original investigations, and interactive partnerships. The life science theme emphasizes scientific research, critical thinking, problem solving, technology and team work. Eighty-five percent of the graduates in 2011 selected college majors in biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering and pharmacy. BTHS has articulation agreements with New Jersey universities as well as internship partnerships with many top bio/pharmaceutical companies in the state. All junior and senior students at BTHS are International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Candidates. Seventy-three percent of the Class of 2011 earned their IB Diploma.

Communications High School (CHS)

Located in Wall Township, Communications High School, a small, personalized academy with a career focus, provides a theme-based integrated curriculum in conjunction with community and industry partnerships. Monmouth County students interested in the field of communications acquire knowledge, skills, and ethics in a unique and challenging educational environment. As a highly competitive specialized school, CHS selects 80 students each year from over 29,000 students enrolled in 26 public and 10 private schools across the county. CHS provides a college preparatory program in Communications that serves the community by providing exemplary learning experiences in areas such as New Media, Journalism and Publishing , Commercial Art, and TV/Radio Broadcasting. Every course is offered at the honors level.

High Technology High School (HTHS)

Located on the campus of Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, High Technology High School is a pre-engineering career academy that emphasizes the interconnections among mathematics, science, technology and the humanities. HTHS prepares students to become creative problem solvers through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships. Since its founding, the admission process has become increasingly competitive. Seventy-five students are selected each year from a pool of over three hundred outstanding applicants. Recognized twice as both a NJ Star School and a No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School, the US Department of Education has described HTHS as a "benchmark school." It went on to say the school "evidences that its approach embraces student, faculty, staff, and administration alike in a mission of excellence, requiring the most of, and providing the most to, all who enter there."

Marine Academy of Science & Technology (MAST)

To provide small, nurturing, student-centered, learning environment for young people in New Jersey; who are talented and are truly interested in the areas of: Marine and Environmental Studies. Located on historic and scenic Sandy Hook, this unique location enables the students to have regular scientific contact on the beaches, the bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Marine Academy is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and offers small classes with close personal attention. In 1998, the Marine Academy was designated a Blue Ribbon School as well as a New American High School by the United States Department of Education; these are just two of the many the innovative program has received throughout its years. The school's curriculum focuses on marine sciences and marine technology/engineering. The M.A.S.T. program requires each student to participate in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) in lieu of Physical Education.

All information deemed reliable as of 1/15/2012.

You’ve seen some homes and like what you’ve seen! Manalapan, New Jersey sure appears to be a great place to live, but what about the school system?

Manalapan Township is proud to offer an elementary school district with a tradition of excellence! Personally, I have two daughters with whom I have experienced the Manalapan Township School System and I will say that the school district continues to exceed my expectations!

Two of our schools, Manalapan Englishtown Middle School and Pine Brook School, have received the coveted New Jersey Department of Education STAR School designation and a third school, Taylor Mills, was recognized for a statewide Best Practice Award.

Manalapan students have succeeded scholastically on the national level in the Odyssey of the Mind and Continental Math League competitions. Manalapan athletes have won numerous conference, county and state titles. Click for NJ School Report Cards on schools in the Manalapan Englishtown Regional School District.

Manalapan Township has one Early Learning Center for Pre-k and Kindergarten, five elementary schools for Grades 1 - 5, one pre-middle school for Grade 6 and a middle school for Grades 7 & 8. Manalapan High School is a part of the Freehold Regional High School District, offering Manalapan students numerous options for their high school education. (See my blog on High School Opportunities for the Freehold Regional High School District for more information on High School Education).

Which school will my children attend? Not too long ago Manalapan Township underwent a redistricting to best service the needs of our growing population. You can click here to find the district zoning map. Click here for a list of streets with the school they go to and whether they are AM or PM kindergarten session. Yes, Manalapan Township is only HALF DAY Kindergarten!

Where do you go to register? New homeowners should register children at the Transportation Department, located at 116 Milhurst Rd., Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. When transferring from another school, you will need the following:

1. Transfer card from school previously attended (if transfer is from another N.J. school system, health records must accompany the transfer card).
2. Proof of residency (closing statement ("HUD"), utility bill, etc.)

NOTE: Students who will be 13 by October 1 must register for MEMS. Students who will be 15 by October 1 must register for the Freehold Regional High School District. Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by October 1 of that year.

Give me a call or drop me an email if you would like a more personalized description of the Manalapan-Englishtown School System. As a 20 year Manalapan resident, I enjoy talking and teaching all there is to know about my town!

EARLY LEARNING (Pre-K & Kindergarten)

John I. Dawes Early Learning Center
Ms. Melissa Foy-Principal
38 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732) 786-2830

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS (Grades 1 - 5)

Clark Mills School
Mrs. Jayme Orlando - Principal
34 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2720

Milford Brook School
Ms. Kim Pickus-Principal
20 Globar Terrace
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2780

Lafayette Mills School
Mr. Gregory Duffy-Principal
66 Maxwell Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2700

Taylor Mills School
Mrs. Kerry Marsala-Principal
77 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2760

Wemrock Brook School
Ms. Jacqueline M. Martin-Principal
118 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2600

PRE-MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grade 6)

Pine Brook School
Mr. John Spalthoff-Principal
155 Pease Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2800

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 7 & 8)

Manalapan-Englishtown Middle School (MEMS)
Mr. Robert Williams-Principal
155 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2650

Located at the intersection of Route 33 and Route 9, Freehold Raceway Mall is a super-regional, high-end shopping mall in Freehold, New Jersey, right in the heart of Monmouth County.

Managed by The Macerich Company, Freehold Mall is currently the second largest shopping mall in New Jersey. An outdoor lifestyle addition, built in 2007, made Freehold Raceway Mall the only mall in New Jersey to have both indoor and outdoor shopping areas.

Freehold Raceway Mall owes its success, in part, to the strength and dependability of its anchor stores which include Macy's, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Sears and JCPenney.

In addition to the large department stores, Freehold Raceway Mall also offers plenty of shopping choices for all your retail needs. Young or old, boy or girl, there's something for everyone!

Retail Stores at the Freehold Raceway Mall

When it comes to eating The Freehold Raceway Mall offers many options from a sit down meal at Ruby Tuesday's to grabbing a pretzel at Auntie Anne's. Nordstrom Cafe is a crowd pleaser for something in between.

Dining at Freehold Raceway Mall

Whether you live in Marlboro or Manalapan, or Freehold or Howell, Freehold Raceway Mall is a great option for all your shopping needs.

A Certificate of Occupancy ("C of O") or A Certificate of Continued Occupancy ("CCO") is a document issued by the local government that certifies a home's compliance with local building codes. Certificates of occupancy demonstrate that a home or building is in livable condition. A licensed inspector that works for the local government will inspect the home and provide a certificate of occupancy to give homebuyers, and mortgage lenders, assurance that the home is in a safe and livable condition.

Each township has their own guidelines as to what is required to receive the Certificate and those requirements can vary greatly from one town to another. Some townships don't require a Certificate of Occupancy at all! Below is specific information on getting a Certificate of Occupancy in Manalapan Township. Please contact me if you would like information on C of O requirements in your town.

In Manalapan Township, a CCO, Certificate of Continued Occupancy, is required when selling or renting a home and is the responsibility of the seller. The CCO is comprised of a home inspection and a smoke/fire inspection.

Currently, the cost to apply for a CCO is $155.00. No checks! Acceptable methods of payment are cash or two separate money orders. One for $110 for the CCO and one for $45 for the Smoke Detector/Carbon Monoxide Certificate. You can find the application online (Manalapan Township CCO Application) or pick one up at the Municipal Building located at 120 Route 522, across from the Manalapan Recreation Center.

A CCO is good for 90 days from the date of issuance. The Smoke Detector Certification expires after six months from the date of issuance. You can extend the CCO once for another 90 days for $25.

Prior to your CCO inspection, it is necessary to “close out” all existing open permits. Do not think that just maybe the inspector won’t notice you finished your basement or that you installed a new hot water heater. Trust me, he will be looking for these items! Saying “it was here when we bought the house” won’t get you too far either!

Common items requiring permits include:

FENCE * POOLS (ABOVE or INGROUND) * POOL HEATERS * GAS LINES * HOT TUBS/SPA * PAVERS * PATIO * DECK * SHED * GAZEBO * SPRINKLERS * FINISHED BASEMENTS * GARAGE CONVERSIONS * ADDITIONS * HOT WATER HEATERS * FURNACE * ELECTRIC SERVICE UPGRADES * RECESSED LIGHTING * TRACK LIGHTING * RE-ROOF/RE-SIDING

In addition, be sure to review the checklist of items the Housing Inspector will be checking. This most current checklist can be obtained from the Township website (Manalapan Township CCO Checklist) or by visiting the Construction Office at the Municipal Building.

Manalapan Township Certificate of Occupancy Checklist (as of July 2011):

6” HOUSE NUMBERS	Must be posted on front of the house and visible from the street, written words are not acceptable.
STEPS & LANDINGS	Open portion of a stair, landing or balcony which is more than 30” (thirty inches) above the floor or grade shall have guardrails. Stairs must be in sound and good condition.
RAILINGS	Handrails and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.
WINDOWS	All must have screens, no broken or cracked glazing. They shall be capable of being easily opened, held in position by window hardware and locked.
WASHER/DRYER	Must discharge into a drainage system, not on the ground or into a sump pump. Dryer must be vented to the exterior with a metal pipe or foil flex from the machine.
DOORS	All interior doors must be operational with hardware. Front door must have a thumb latch lock from the interior, keyed cylinders from the interior are not allowed.
HEATING UNIT	Must be operational and connected to a thermostat. Area around furnace must be free and clear of storage and/or debris.
GARAGE	No extension cords on door opener. Door from house to the garage must be maintained in operative condition and be fire rated.
ROOF	No leaks, no missing shingles, no excessive curling.
STOVE/RANGE	Must be operational with knobs and hardware. NO SECOND STOVES/RANGE ALLOWED!
FLOORS	Smooth and free of tripping hazards.
PLUMBING	Fixtures shall be properly installed, connected and maintained in working order.
ELECTRICAL	All receptacles (outlets), switches and junction boxes must be properly covered. Extension cords are not permitted. A clear and unobstructed path to the panel box, open slots must be properly blocked.
YARD & PROPERTY	Clean and free of debris, lawns and landscaping maintained.
GENERAL CONDITIONS	Walls, ceiling, trim, paint, siding, and fences must be in good and sound condition.
SMOKE DETECTORS	Original system built with the house must be maintained (e.g. interconnected cannot be replaced with a standalone battery operated one). Operating detectors must be installed on each level/floor of the house (basement and crawl spaces included) and within 10’ (ten feet) of any sleeping room.
CARBON MONOXIDE	Homeowners are required to install a detector(s) as per manufacturer installation of the brand they choose. However, a minimum of one (1) must be installed in the vicinity of all sleeping areas. If bedrooms are on more than one floor level, additional detectors are required to protect each area. Instruction booklet/directors should be left for future homeowner. Homes with electric heat do not require Carbon Monoxide detectors (Covered Bridge).
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS	All residential units must have a fire extinguisher. It must be rated for residential use consisting of an 2A-10BC type and weigh no more than 10 lbs. We suggest placing it under the kitchen sink cabinet or mounted within 10 feet of the kitchen.

It is very important to address these items before the inspector arrives! Failing for these items will lead to delays, as well as the need for a re-inspection. Not to mention, it makes for a cranky inspector if the checklist is ignored!

No question, in my experience, the number one reason homeowners fail their CCO inspections is because they buy the wrong fire extinguisher! It is required that all residential units have a “2A 10BC” type fire extinguisher, no larger than 10 lbs. Usually in stock at Lowe’s and Home Depot and will cost between $30 - $40. Place the fire extinguisher in the kitchen cabinet, below the sink (out of the box), or mounted within 10 feet of the kitchen. Also, if you believe you already have the proper extinguisher, make sure it is still charged by checking the gauge on top!

All homes with well and septic systems must have approval from the Health Department in order for a CCO to be issued. You must provide proof of your septic system being pumped within the last 2 years. Well water needs to be tested and the results submitted for Health Department review.

There's no avoiding the C of O process, so best to tackle it as soon as you list your home for sale. Better to address any issues in a stress-free environment than to try to rush the process 2 weeks before closing!