Before you say yes to a fire pit request, remember to obtain all the information you need to make an informed decision. In what follows, we will converse about some of the pros and cons of allowing fire pits on your rental properties and also a few essential things to consider before responding to a tenant’s request for one.
It’s Just Good Business
Maybe the biggest incentive to allow a fire pit at your rental is because it will probably make your tenant happy. Also, happy tenants are good for your business. Productive communication is the foundation of owning successful rental properties. Definitely, you also need to set clear limits for your tenant not to try to take advantage of your goodwill. However, it may be worth thinking if a fire pit in the backyard keeps them in your rental longer.
The Downsides
Certainly, every situation is unique, so it’s important to understand the risks associated with residential fire pits – and that these risks may vary based on who your tenant is and where your rental is placed. Unhappily, about 5,000 Americans are injured every year by propane, charcoal, or wood-burning fires.
Because of the popularity of fire pits, individuals particularly wounded by outdoor fireplaces and fire pits tripled in just six years. Fires can become out of control rapidly, creating additional risks to your property and the occupants. No guarantee is made that your tenant has basic fire safety knowledge, nor will they use good judgment regarding the open flames in their fire pit.
In addition, some locations have regulations that restrict outdoor fire pits entirely or allow them only under certain conditions. It’s advisable 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
Apart from the risks, it is vital to mention that correctly setting up and handling a fire pit can help minimize them. If you sense that your tenant is responsible enough to observe proper safety guidelines, you might consider agreeing to a fire pit if certain conditions are met. To give an illustration, you’ll want to obtain specific details about what kind of fire pit they like, as well as how and where it will be installed on the property. Your property’s curb appeal is crucial to your property values, particularly your ability to rent the property again in the future. It is important to ensure that the fire pit is not an eyesore or bringing harm to your yard, patio, or home – the fire pit is placed too close to the siding, for instance.
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 indicates their fire pit safety know-how.
Lastly, you should check with your insurance carrier about any possible effect allowing a fire pit may have on your coverage and rates. If you don’t, and your property is damaged, you may not be covered for the repairs. Your tenant also needs to have their own renter’s insurance that covers fire-related injuries and damage.
Deciding whether to allow a fire pit at your rental or not might take a bit of effort, but it’s important to have all the facts before you do so. However, if you’d rather spend your time on other tasks, Real Property Management Platinum can help. Our Woodward Park 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.