Owning an investment rental property in Columbia Heights takes a lot of time and effort, especially if you intend to make your property and a safe and secure place for your residents to live. However, this goal could be in jeopardy if you do not take measures to protect your property against fire hazards, and other potential threats. Learn how to practice and promote fire-smart habits today.
It is easy to begin implementing fire-safety procedures for your property and its residents year-round. By taking the initiative you are showing your residents that you care about their safety, and promoting your credibility as an investment homeowner or landlord. Do not let a fire hazard present itself before you start making changes. Check out these tips from Real Property Management DC Metro to reduce fire hazard with your Columbia Heights rental property today.
1. Check Fire Extinguishers Regularly
If you have purchased property with the intention to rent it out or make extra income, then the success of your rental home is a top priority. Nothing makes your property stand out more than by equipping it with all of the right materials to make it a safe place to live. As an investment homeowner, you have complied with proper fire safety procedures such as including a fire extinguisher within the household; however, it can be easy to forget that it is there. Your residents may also forget about the location of the fire extinguisher if not reminded. It is essential that your fire extinguisher is in good condition if the need ever arises to use it, so performing a visual check annually can make all the difference.
While a visual examination may seem too simple, it could be lifesaving. During a visual check a homeowner or landlord should make sure that it is located in its original spot, that it is not damaged, nothing blocks or obstructs it and that it is fully operational. Additionally, you should check that that pressure gauge is within operating range and that the pull pin is sealed and intact. The fire extinguisher will also have a tag on it, so be sure to mark the date of the visual inspection when you perform it.
2. Fire Marshal Review
Another common misconception that both homeowners and residents alike share is that the fire department should only be called in the event of an emergency. However, your local fire department offers a variety of free services to ensure that your property is safe from fire hazards. This comprehensive fire marshal review helps ensure that your property has been looked at by a professional, and it is important that your residents are present for the review so that they can answer any questions the fire marshal might have as well as learn helpful fire prevention tips.
These annual reviews are free and are worth every second of it. A fire marshal would much rather give residents and homeowners tools to prevent fires than putting one in your kitchen out. The fire marshal will assess items such as evacuation plans, the frequency of fireplace and furnace cleaning, safe storage of flammable materials, if your smoke alarm needs replacement, etc. Take advantage of this free service yearly.
3. Appliance Fire Safety
After reducing fire hazards for your Columbia Heights rental property as best you can, you must also instruct your residents how to make fire-safe decisions in their day-to-day life. Reminders might include things like removing items that surround or cover appliances such as water heaters and furnaces that could cause potential house fires.
It is best to mark an area around these appliances with tape or some other form of permanent marking that helps residents remember to keep any flammable items behind this line at all times. Other items such as making sure all protective covers are in place and removing lint and dust from ducts will all serve to prevent fires happening in your rental property.
Start making your Columbia Heights rental property a safer place to live today with these tips to reduce fire hazards. If you would like more information about Real Property Management DC Metro and our services, then contact us online and call us at 202-269-0303 today.
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