How to block off a fireplace?

Question

I've heard other landlords say that they recommend blocking off wood burning fireplaces to keep tenants from using them. But I can't seem to find info on how to block one off. I just bought a home last month with a fireplace and I would like to block it off. Can anyone help me?

Kirsten Ostby · Answer

Good ideas! Thank you @Beth L. and @Racheal Stoyk

Beth L. · Answer

@Kirsten Ostby We have an older duplex and each side has a fireplace. These didn't have dampers in place so we just took some type of thick plastic material and taped it into the top inside of the fireplace, then painted the inside all black.

Another newer duplex we own has nice fireplaces with motorized vent fans installed. We didn't want to do anything to these fireplaces that couldn't easily be undone in case we sell the units later or something. So we used the High Heat type paint for grills and such and painted the interior black, and just closed the damper and told the tenants that the fireplaces cannot be used.

Another option is that you can have them capped off at the top of the chimney. A roofer or other contractor can do this. They use metal sheeting and screw it into the brick.

Racheal Stoyk · Answer

We've painted the inside and used a Plexiglas type cover that's non-removable. Seems to work well, they can use the area for decoration; battery operated candles and such if the cover is unscrewed but otherwise it's made to look clean, fresh and nice but not to be used.