One of the most popular holidays in our country is the 4th of July and with it comes the concern of fire dangers from fireworks.
Summer would not be summer without the fireworks celebrations and outdoor grilling that take place each July 4th in the U.S., but you can still have fun and be proactively safe by taking precautions to avoid harm to people and property.
As an investment property owner, you may not be on hand to supervise how your tenants observe this holiday. What you can do, however, is to make some rules about fire safety and what your expectations are as a landlord to avoid any fire damages.
Be sure that your residents understand there may be restrictions within certain city limits for the use of fireworks. Have this clearly understood. Still it’s best to insist that fire extinguishers be on hand at the property, even if it’s just for grilling. Believe it or not, from 2011–2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 9,600 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year.*
If you want to discourage fireworks on or near your rental property, provide your tenants with a list of local public fireworks displays that they can attend. Some communities even suggest a shuttle or carpool effort to encourage this.
As a landlord, you do not have to choose between safety and fun. Savvy property managers and property owners set an environment that lets tenants know they care. Still, as a landlord you are in the lead for practicing good risk mitigation. Showing that you take a committed interest in the property reminds the residents of why they enjoy living at your property in the first place.