You’ve just rented an apartment or bought a condo with a nice deck you consider perfect for grilling – until your landlord or HOA says you can’t.

Your landlord or HOA is unfortunately right. And as difficult as it is to realize, you should be grateful they’re enforcing that rule.

For many years, the International Fire Code has prohibited the use of gas and charcoal grills on wood decks or within 10 feet of any combustible structure at a multi-family structure housing three or more families.

Insurance companies follow this guideline when underwriting new and renewal policies.

If your Homeowners’ Association (HOA) or landlord isn’t enforcing the no-grill policy, they’re putting you at risk for a fire in your building – and possible denial of coverage from your insurance company.

Many HOAs and landlords address this issue by providing grills in common areas safely away from their buildings. That way the families living there can enjoy grilling safely and in a way that won’t negate their insurance.

There are some exceptions to this no-grill rule. Some insurance companies allow exceptions if the propane tank is less than one pound in size or if there are automatic fire sprinklers on the outside of the building.

Questions about your situation?  Call me at 303.922.1002 and I’ll be happy to answer your questions.