Possible Legal Issues? Rooftop Deck, Firepit, Hot Tub
What possible legal consequences could arise from these things that I would like to do with my rowhouse property in Richmond, VA :
1. build a deck that is to code ontop of the detatched garage.
2. Put a hot tub in the back yard that I intend for the tenants to maintain and keep chemicals up to date in.
3. have a firepit in the back yard that the tenants can use.
Are there things that I can include in the lease that mitigate this risk? I can do these 3 things with very little expense so I am considering them. If they significantly increase my risk of liability issues I may reconsider. Thanks in advance.
Well the hot tub is free. I have no where else to put it other than this property. If it attracts more people and is little or no cost to me I think it would be worth it as long as it isnt adding too much risk as far as someone getting hurt and me being responsible.
Sell the hot tub. Put an ad in craigslist.[ Edited by d_random on Date 04/28/2008 ]
Jim, Thanks for your reply.
This house is 6 blocks from VCU in the Fan. I plan to rent it to the most responsible college students I can find and I think the hot tub would really add to the appeal for them. I think it will allow me to charge a little more in rent mainly for the "cool" factor and add to my rental pool. I probably will talk to a lawyer at some point but I was trying to get a general idea from this board first. Thanks.
Many insurance companies will not cover student rentals. Be sure that this is mentioned in your insurance application or your claims will be denied.
Chris
It would be nice if someone could post a response based on their knowledge and or experience.