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Should You Allow a Fire Pit at Your Kansas City Rental Property?

Tenants Roasting Over a Fire Pit at a Kansas City Rental PropertyFire pits are a popular component in various backyards. Even though fire pits can be fun, they can also carry some significant risks. These risks should make any Kansas City rental property owner think twice before approving one at their property. Promoting enjoyment of the home is important for tenant relations, and this includes allowing renters to personalize their indoor and outdoor living spaces – to some extent.

Before you say yes to a fire pit request, make certain to acquire all the information you need to make an informed decision. In the upcoming sections, we will discuss some of the pros and cons of allowing fire pits on your rental properties, as well as some essential factors to remember before responding to a tenant’s request for one.

It’s Just Good Business

Perhaps the most significant reason to allow a fire pit at your rental is that it will probably make your tenant happy. And happy tenants are good for your business. Productive communication is the foundation of owning successful rental properties. Indeed, you must also set clear limits for your tenant so that they do not take advantage of your kindness. Yet, if a fire pit in the backyard will potentially keep them in your rental longer, it may be worth thinking.

The Downsides

Definitely, every situation is different, so you need to understand the risks connected with residential fire pits – and that these risks may vary depending on who your tenant is and where your rental is located. Unhappily, about 5,000 Americans are injured every year by propane, charcoal, or wood-burning fires.

Due to the popularity of fire pits, the number of people hurt by outdoor fireplaces and fire pits tripled in just six years. Fires may become quickly out of control, causing additional risks to your property along with the occupants. There’s no guarantee that your tenant will know basic fire safety, nor that they will use good judgment around the open flames in their fire pit.

Moreover, a few areas have regulations that entirely restrict outdoor fire pits or only approve them under certain conditions. Don’t forget 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, it is important to remember that correctly setting up and handling a fire pit can help minimize them. If you assume that your tenant is responsible enough to observe proper safety guidelines, you could consider agreeing to a fire pit if certain conditions are met. For instance, you will need to get comprehensive details about what kind of fire pit they want and how and where it will be installed on the property. Your property’s curb appeal is fundamental to your property values, as well as your ability to rent the property again in the future. You must guarantee that the fire pit is not an eyesore or bringing hazard to your yard, patio, or home – the fire pit is placed too close to the siding, for example.

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

Ultimately, it is vital 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. It is advisable for your tenant to have their own renter’s insurance that covers fire-related injuries and damage.

 

It may require some effort to determine whether to allow a fire pit at your rental or not, but it’s important to have all the facts before deciding. Yet, if you’d rather spend your time on other tasks, Real Property Management Principles can help. Our Kansas City 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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