Fire pits are a normal feature in several backyards. While fire pits can be fun, several serious risks can sometimes occur. These risks should have every Georgetown rental property owner think twice before allowing one at their property. It’s great for tenant relations to support the enjoyment of the home, and this includes allowing renters to personalize their indoor and outdoor living spaces – in limited ways.
Before you say yes to a fire pit request, remember to have all the information you need to make an informed decision. In what follows, we will tackle some of the pros and cons of allowing fire pits on your rental properties and some essential factors that have to be considered before responding to a tenant’s request for one.
It’s Just Good Business
Maybe the most significant reason to allow a fire pit at your rental is that it will probably make your tenant happy. In addition, happy tenants are good for your business. Productive communication is the foundation of owning successful rental properties. Obviously, you should set clear limits for your tenant not to attempt to take advantage of your kindness. However, if a fire pit in the backyard will likely keep them in your rental longer, it could be worth considering.
The Downsides
Undeniably, every situation is distinctive, so it’s useful to understand the risks that go together with residential fire pits – and that these risks may vary subject to who your tenant is and where your rental is located. Sad to say, about 5,000 Americans are injured every year by propane, charcoal, or wood-burning fires.
Due to the popularity of fire pits, those wounded by outdoor fireplaces and fire pits tripled in just six years. Fires may easily get out of control and bring significant risks to your property as well as the occupants. There is no surety that your tenant will know basic fire safety nor that they will use good judgment near the open flames in their fire pit.
In addition, many places have regulations that totally restrict outdoor fire pits or permit them only under certain conditions. It’s essential to research these regulations in your specific city, county, and state before allowing a fire pit to be installed at your rental home.
More to Consider
Despite the risks, you need to remember that correctly setting up and handling a fire pit can help minimize them. If you feel 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 will need to obtain exact details about what kind of fire pit they choose, as well as how and where it will be installed on the property. Your property’s curb appeal is beneficial to your property values, as well as the ability to rent the property again in the future. You must ensure that the fire pit is not an eyesore or posing damage to your yard, patio, or home – the fire pit is placed too close to the siding, for example.
What is more, a responsible tenant still needs to be instructed in fire pit safety, which you can do yourself. Begin sharing information with them or signing an addendum to the lease that indicates their fire pit safety know-how.
Finally, be sure to 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 should also have their own renter’s insurance that covers fire-related injuries and damage.
It may require some effort to decide whether to allow a fire pit at your rental or not, but it’s helpful to have all the facts before making a decision. Yet, if you’d rather spend your time on other tasks, Real Property Management Diamond can do the job. Our Georgetown property management professionals can help you handle all of your tenant’s requests and provide valuable advice and information you need not just to 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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