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born_to_kvetch t1_j6e62ts wrote

As far as I know, there's no ban. The issue is that a lot of rentals have boarded up their fireplaces for liability reasons, or they haven't had a chimney cleaning/inspection in ages so the risk of a chimney fire is much higher. Best to speak with the landlord before using the fireplace.

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Sujjin OP t1_j6e6eui wrote

thank you. I will do that

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keyjan t1_j6e7l5g wrote

Second this; I'm in the burbs but came home from work one day to find the local FD scampering across all our roofs, knocking down a chimney fire in the house three doors down. Fortunately no major damage. (Chimney had never been cleaned in the history of the house.)

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kirkl3s t1_j6i2ofr wrote

Speaking from experience - repairing a chimney is also extremely expensive. I was quoted like $8G to get mine back up and running

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qsauce7 t1_j6eabsk wrote

Please get it inspected and swept before burning anything in it. Costs about $200 but it's worth the peace of mind.

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DanOinDC t1_j6epldi wrote

Also worth getting inspected (and having a detector) for carbon monoxide concerns.

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bananahead t1_j6f3aj9 wrote

Also, if you don’t have renters insurance you should really get some — especially if you plan on starting fires but even if not. It’s cheap.

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keyjan t1_j6f6j18 wrote

Also check the lease—renters insurance may be required.

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ThatsALovelyShirt t1_j6e5kb8 wrote

I used mine all the time. I also had a charcoal barbecue on my back patio, no one ever did anything.

This was in Adams Morgan.

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Sujjin OP t1_j6e5y4n wrote

Do you know of where I can find any specific regulations about what a renter can and cannot do?

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ThatsALovelyShirt t1_j6e8d8r wrote

I mean as long as your landlord is OK with it and so long as the chimney has been inspected, I wouldn't worry about it. No one is going to bust down your door and throw you in handcuffs for trying to be warm and cozy.

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jednorog t1_j6f7d77 wrote

Check your lease. If there is no information there, it may be wise to check with the landlord before using it.

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NPRjunkieDC t1_j6fh5uv wrote

Start by asking your landlord. In a 4-unit we lived in it wasn't allowed

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Hills_Dweller_22305 t1_j6eb4l0 wrote

Nope. Go ahead and fire away. But talk to your landlord first to be sure it's operational. I have my rental unit chimney cleaned every August.

Source: I own a condo in Kalorama with a working fireplace and rent it out.

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gator_fl t1_j6e6jmp wrote

There are thousands or more rowhomes inspected by DCRA for rentals and they pass rental with working fireplaces.

Look at DC Tenant Rights guide on dc.gov for regulations

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DrewinSWDC t1_j6fnavb wrote

Don’t. I would add this as a clause in any rental agreement - the dangers of someone doesn’t know how to have a fire - and wind up with a fire - are significant

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