My Liability In Rental Units With Woodburning Fireplaces

I just looked at a duplex with prefab steel woodburning fireplaces.

One firebox isbuckled and perforated from fires larger than the unit was meant to handle, in a wrong grate..

I cannot see how the steel panels can be removed and replaced. Ergo, the entire unit must be replaced to be functional. Looks expensive, considering the stone front and hearth cover the nailing flanges.



I am concerned about fire safety for tenants, my liability and other possible damage.

Should I be?



Considering:

1. Lease language that says the fireplaces are decorative, no fires, wood or othrwise.

2. Installing electric logs (no gas on property) and locking damper.

3. Lease language stating "non-functional, no fires."



Or, removing the glass doors and covering the front with a piece of tempered glass, with a faux fire behind it.



Looking for input, experience, and other ideas.

Comments(2)

  • webuyproperties11th September, 2005

    The HOA needs to have the fee in the meeting notes. They have to supply those notes to you, upon request.
    To answer the question, they can not charge a fee unless they have it written somewhere....

  • natep11th September, 2005

    I have a substantial portfolio of student housing in Troy, NY. Let me know if you need any help. Yes, this area does provide for decent free cash flows

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