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Should You Allow a Fire Pit at Your South Roanoke Rental Property?

Tenants Roasting Over a Fire Pit at a South Roanoke Rental PropertyFire pits are a common part of several backyards. While fire pits can be fun, they can also pose some serious risks. These risks need to make any South Roanoke rental property owner think twice before installing one at their property. It is ideal for tenant relations to encourage the enjoyment of the home, and this includes allowing renters to personalize their indoor and outdoor living spaces – to a certain degree.

Before you say yes to a fire pit request, make sure to get all the information you need to settle on an informed decision. In this segment, we will explain some of the pros and cons of allowing fire pits on your rental properties, as well as a few key items to remember before responding to a tenant’s request for one.

It’s Just Good Business

Maybe the most motivating reason to allow a fire pit at your rental is that it will most likely make your tenant happy. Additionally, happy tenants are good for your business. Productive communication is the foundation of owning successful rental properties. Evidently, you must also set clear limits for your tenant not to try to take advantage of your kind-heartedness. Still, if a fire pit in the backyard will probably keep them in your rental longer, it may be worth considering.

The Downsides

Every situation is clearly different, so it’s imperative to understand the risks associated with residential fire pits – and that these risks may vary depending on who your tenant is and where your rental can be found. Unfortunately, about 5,000 Americans are injured every year by propane, charcoal, or wood-burning fires.

As a result of the popularity of fire pits, the percentage of people burned by outdoor fireplaces and fire pits tripled in just six years. Fires may instantly get out of control, causing additional risks to your property as well as the occupants. No guarantee is available that your tenant will know basic fire safety, nor that they will use good judgment around the open flames in their fire pit.

In addition, some regions have regulations that completely restrict outdoor fire pits or permit them only under certain conditions. It’s important to research these regulations in your particular city, county, and state before allowing a fire pit to be installed at your rental home.

More to Consider

Aside from the risks, it is imperative to consider that correctly setting up and handling a fire pit can help minimize them. If you think that your tenant is responsible enough to observe proper safety guidelines, you might consider agreeing to a fire pit if certain conditions are met. For instance, you’ll need to collect specific details about what kind of fire pit they desire and how and where it will be installed on the property. Your property’s curb appeal is essential to your property values, as well as your ability to rent the property again in the future. It is important to guarantee that the fire pit is not an eyesore or bringing danger to your yard, patio, or home – the fire pit is placed too close to the siding, for example.

Additionally, a responsible tenant should still be instructed in fire pit safety, which you can do yourself. Think about sharing information with them or signing an addendum to the lease that attests to their fire pit safety know-how.

Lastly, it is advisable to check with your insurance carrier about any potential effect allowing a fire pit may have on your coverage and rates. In the event that you don’t, and your property is damaged, you may not be covered for the repairs. It is also imperative for your tenant to have their own renter’s insurance that covers fire-related injuries and damage.

 

Choosing whether to allow a fire pit at your rental or not may need some effort, but it’s recommended to have all the facts before you decide. However, if you’d rather spend your time on other tasks, Real Property Management Colonial can help. Our South Roanoke property management professionals can help you handle all of your tenant’s requests and provide valuable advice and information you need to not only keep your tenants (and your property) safe but also profitable. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.

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