TIP OF THE MONTH - October 2013
Carbon Monoxide
Source: Property Management for Dummies
By Robert Griswold
Carbon monoxide, a
colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas produced when fuel burns
incompletely, can quickly build up in a rental unit in just
hours. If the leak occurs when the tenants are asleep, they could
easily lose consciousness and suffer a serious injury or even die
before noticing anything was wrong.
Appliances such as natural gas and oil furnaces, gas water heaters,
wood burning stoves, fireplaces and gas or kerosene space heaters can
all emit carbon monoxide. When these appliances are working
properly, the carbon monoxide is vented to the chimney or other venting
system and there is no danger. However, if the appliances or
fireplace are not vented properly, then carbon monoxide can build up
within a rental unit.
Naturally, carbon monoxide poisoning is a particular concern for rental
owners with properties in cold weather areas of the country where
tenants rely on one of these appliances to heat their rental
unit. Carbon monoxide detectors are only legally required in
certain areas; however, installing a carbon monoxide detector if your
rental unit has a fireplace or uses carbon monoxide-producing heating
appliances is suggested, even if you don’t have your
manager/maintenance person look out for any tenant misuse of a portable
gas or kerosene heater because they are the major cause of carbon
monoxide poisonings and death.
Take steps to have a professional from your oil or natural gas supplier
inspect all heating systems annually in the fall. If they do not
offer these services, hire a professional heating appliance repair
company. If you have fireplaces, you need to have a chimney
cleaning company periodically inspect your chimney, chimney
connections, and insulation for cracks, blockages, or leaks. Have
any recommended work done as soon as possible and quickly respond to
any complaints from tenant about possible carbon monoxide
poisoning.