I’m finishing a rehab on a single-family rental in Cleveland, Ohio, that I plan to rent through Section 8/HCV.

I recently purchased a replacement furnace and hot water tank. My GC was responsible for handling the installation and permit requirements. When the equipment was purchased/delivered, the GC wasn’t at the property and his workers accepted the delivery. The equipment apparently wasn’t measured properly beforehand for the existing basement setup/height.

The solution they used was to raise both the furnace and hot water tank on wooden/plywood platforms so they could connect them to the existing systems.

My concern is whether this is an acceptable permanent installation. Is it normal/code-compliant to have a gas furnace and gas water heater sitting on raised wood platforms like this? Are there fire, stability, moisture, clearance, or other safety concerns with using wood underneath these appliances?

The property will soon need to go through the appropriate inspections, and I also plan to have a Section 8/HCV inspection before placing a tenant. Would this type of installation typically pass a Section 8 inspection in Cleveland, assuming the furnace and water heater are fully operational and everything else is properly connected/vented?

I’m especially interested in hearing from HVAC/plumbing contractors or Cleveland landlords who have dealt with HCV inspections. My first investment property.I can provide photos of the setup if that helps and if I can. Ty guys so much!