Fire Pits and Rental Property
If you’ve decided to allow a fire pit on your property, there are things you can do to protect both your real estate investment and your tenants.
Fire pits vs gas pits
When it comes to convenience, gas fire pits can produce instant flames. If your tenants use gas, make sure they change out the gas tanks when empty. With a wood fire, they’ll need a dry area for a stockpile of logs. For the maintenance of gas fire pits, the gas valves should be cleaned regularly to avoid buildup. Log fire pits, on the other hand, don’t need much maintenance at all.
In addition, it is important to ensure fire pits should be placed far enough away from any residences and in a place where the ground is level.
Permanent vs temporary fire pits
Pergola with patio area. Tile floor decorated with flower pots. Stone trimmed fire pit, patio table set and barbecue
If you have chosen a gas fire pit for your rentals, you will most likely want it to be a permanent fixture. Portable fire pits are still an option for those if you want to store them on a seasonal basis or move them around a common area or yard.
As for materials, you can use stone, brick or concrete for the base of a permanent fire pit. For portable fire-pits, choose from many different types of metals, copper being the best option.
When choosing the right size, make sure the fire pit is not so big that it takes up too much of the yard or makes too big of a statement. You also don’t want it so small that it wouldn’t be ideal for a group to use.
Lastly, fire pits should not be installed or used without the landlord’s permission. Remember to monitor what your tenants are doing and take all necessary precautions to protect your property. If a fire pit is placed in a common area, take charge and get it done in a safe, responsible manner. Fire pits and rental property can often have a bad outcome, so take charge to protect your investment as well as the safety of your tenant.