Fixing a Gas Fireplace

[Curtis Mears]

I have a property with a gas fireplace. The fireplace was non functioning when I purchased the property so I had the contractor disconnect the gas to it. When the current tenants moved in, I told them it was disconnected and non-functioning. If they wanted to use it, they would have to fix (I should have told them it was not allowed to be used, but that is not the case). Now they want to use it, but say I should pay to fix the fireplace (issue with the igniter unit) as it is the same as an appliance and they will pay to connect. Any thoughts? This is not a low end rental but a nice SFH. In the lease, it does say it is rented as is and in the inspection I noted the fireplace was disconnected.

[Deanna McCormick]

It's not an appliance,, and will cost more $$ to run,, so do you pay the gas bill.

I would not reconnect.. They were informed it was not functioning and you had no intention of continued use for that fireplace.. I would further state that they can not use the fireplace,,plain and simple,, don't touch it.