No more BBQ's for California rental units ( 3 units and above)?

New regulation prohibits the use of most Barbecues at Apartment Communities

There is a new regulation that took effect this year enforced by the local fire departments in the Sacramento region reads as follows:

2007 California Fire Code, Section 308.3.1 - Open-flame cooking devices

Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devises shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction.

Exceptions:

•1. Single family homes and duplexes

•2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

•3. Liquefied-petroleum LP (which includes propane) gas fueled cooking devices having LP gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2.5 pounds (1 pound LP - gas capacity).

The rule allows a resident to use an electric BBQ or one that has a liquefied-petroleum gas container capacity of 1 pound or less which are similar to this used for camping. Most BBQs sold at most retailers come with a container capacity of 5 pounds or greater which is prohibited at apartment communities under the regulation.

What should you do if you own a multi-family unit great than 2 units in California?

•1. Send a letter to your tenants making them aware of the new rule.

•2. Consider sending an addendum to your rental agreement for your existing tenants and modify your future rental agreement for future tenants.

It may seem overkill to send out a notice on this but what if you did not let your tenants know and there was a fire. Would you be liable because you did not officially address this new regulation. I don't know but this is California. Better to be safe than sorry!

This blog by:
Team Newington
Sacramento Mortgage Planners
(916) 687-6868
www.SuperiorLoanTeam.com