Can I ask a tenant to removefrom the premiseshis countertop grill or any other appliance he improperly uses ifit’s a safety issue?
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Can I ask a tenant to removefrom the premiseshis countertop grill or any other appliance he improperly uses ifit’s a safety issue?
I manage a duplex. One tenant has fallen asleep three times with his countertop grill on. The other tenant in the building smelled it and had to pound on his door (once in middle of night) to wake the tenant to it turn off. What should I do? I am concerned for safety of all tenants and the building.
Asked on August 9, 2011 Ohio
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If there is a written lease agreement for the unit where the tenant has fallen asleep three times with the countertop grill on, read it carefully. There may be provisions within it that might allow you to resolve the problem for safety reasons on your own.
You need to speak with this tenant who carelessly uses the countertop grill about the safety concern and follow up with a written letter with suggestions that he or she utilize for safety.
You might have to warn this careless tenant that his countertop grill may have to be disconnected not only for his or her safety, but also the safety of the entire complex due to fire concerns or carbon monoxide poisoning. You should install carbon monoxide monitors in all units if they are not already in.
You should also contact you local fire marshall for his or her advice on how to eliminate the problem you are facing.
Good luck. You sound like a good property manager.
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