It seems rather small and by my experience (trial and error) the fire pit will be more of a smokey pit. I say that because the air (oxygen) needed for combustion would need to come down over the edge of the metal and meet the fire at the bottom, and it won't happen easily. Perhaps some spaces or holes are drilled into the metal for air, but it doesn't look like it. And the other things about too close, etc. You could try and build a few fires to check it out. Don't worry about the base pavers cracking, they might, but a layer of sand about an inch or so think, and the natural build-up of ash should insulate them. Send your picture to your insurance agent. You many get your answer.