what would you do?

[Heather Finley]

Hello.

I posted before...newbie landlady. I have a single family house I'm renting to 3 college students. The house has a wood burning fireplace with a separate flue from the gas forced hot air furnace.
My original idea was to convert it to gas, but money is tight and I'd rather not spend 2K for that project.

I asked my insurance rep, and he discouraged me from using the fireplace as it is, given the college student factor. He said my policy does include coverage for fire damage, and also said to be sure it's inspected and cleaned regularly. So my insurance doesn't prohibit it, but the rep discouraged use.

My tenants have been asking me if they can use it.
The previous owners say it works fine. I would like to offer the fireplace to the tenants, but am curious about the opinions of veteran landlords.

Thanks.

Heather