All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

Probably mid to high

Very good. I like that idea best.

I did call a locksmith and he said it was breaking fire code. So I have to do something.

I had a locksmith install a double keyed deadbolt not really thinking that it was an issue. The tenant is being a little paranoid but I understand since he takes long trips and his wife and kids are home. I told him we'd work an alternative where I am not violating code and he still has a deadbolt - but single keyed from the outside.
I think 3M makes security film where you can't break the glass. Maybe new doors w/o windows. But it is an expense and makes the place dark inside. Someone also mentioned a screen type barrier on the outside of the window.

A dilemma I'm having is that my tenant wanted a double keyed dead bolt, and I complied. Both doors have glass that a would be intruder could break and open a dead bolt. Now I hear that could be a fire safety hazard and I could be held liable. More gray area. So I'm thinking of who I should call to get the scoop w/o opening Pandora's box. My latest thought is the insurance company themselves. I'm not beyond just replacing both doors w/o glass and with the dead bolt only keyed on the outside. I'd have to talk to HOA before doing this since all the houses on the ends have glass doors. Anyhow that's it! How did I get into this?

Hi Christopher,
Congrats on the first rental. A tenant of mine wanted a double keyed deadbolt put into the front and rear doors since they had windows. I did do it but now worry about the safety of being able to make a quick exit in case of fire. Also, I'm not sure if they violate any code. But now maybe the electronic one will provide safety as well as security. Is this what you found?
Scott

Same issue here. GEICO just dropped my umbrella after I acquired my 9th property. All State also set a very low limit on something like 4 houses. State Farm said they'd do it and didn't give me a limit of houses. But I'd have to up my liability insurance for each house from $300k to $500k. On and on we go!

You wouldn't do an umbrella?

I thought your topic was interesting. I own 10 properties - condos and SFH. Had an umbrella thru Geico but they canceled it saying they could only do up to 5. How difficult is it to find insurance companies that will do 10 or more with an umbrella? Also, I own in MD and NM.

Thanks Rob, sounds like a good plan