It is generally understood that electric heaters are considered safer for residential use than fuel-based models. However, even electric heaters have to be used under strict supervision and following the guidelines and safety practices. Children and pets are especially susceptible to injury caused by space heaters, which puts any resident with a family or pet at risk. Also, there’s no guarantee that your residents will know or follow the suggested safety practices or use the space heater properly, which may lead to mortifying outcomes.
Banning space heaters is not only a wise safety action but also an essential part of protecting yourself and your real estate investment. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has calculated that over 25,000 residential fires are caused by space heaters each year. These fires result in more than 300 deaths and 6,000 emergency room visits annually. While some of these injuries are burns from touching a space heater unit, others are far more serious.
If you let your residents use space heaters, it would fall upon you to face liability in case something happens. Even though your landlord’s insurance pretty much covers the damage to the rental home itself, loss of life or serious injury caused by a space heater is not. Not to mention, further legal action could be filed against you. Lawsuits alleging negligence or worse could endanger not only your livelihood, but also your assets and, in some cases, your freedom.
Regular property evaluations are vital to guarding your property against the uncertainties presented by space heaters. At Real Property Management Services, regular evaluations are a foundational piece of our property management program. We consider the safety of your residents as a top priority, as is protecting you and your investment from the dangers of noncompliance. Contact us online or call us at 806-853-6546 to learn more about what we can do for you.