A Stove-Hot Issue 

Also of concern for maintenance technicians are residents who—as part of a religious observance—cover their stove top with aluminum foil.

“If something presents a fire hazard, I’d have to go with safety first,” says Victoria Cowart, CPM, Vice President of Property Management for Charleston, S.C.-based Darby Development Company Inc. “I would address it with the highest degree of tact and empathy, but address it nonetheless.

Saying we were frightened of violating someone’s religious rights while allowing a building to suffer fire damage just wouldn’t hold water.”

Chasick agrees, and says covering the stove top should not be permitted unless the stove is unplugged from the wall and the stove breaker is turned off.

Such safety concerns can be difficult to address when cultural and religious traditions come into play, but Jolley says the simplest solution is to work with the resident and take the time to explain why certain rules are in place.

“When I offer an explanation rather than just saying ‘No,’ residents tend to comply,” he says.

— NAA’s Lauren Boston

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