HOA Grilling Safety: The Dos and Don’ts Everyone Needs to Know

Memorial Day weekend 2021 is almost here – are you and your grill ready?

Grilling burgers, hot dogs, BBQ ribs, and shish kabobs over a flame or coals is a Memorial Day staple. However, if you’re living in an HOA, you may find that your community association has strict guidelines on grilling and safety.

Before you fire up the grill, let’s look at the dos and don’ts of HOA grilling safety that residents and their guests need to know.

Types of Grills Permitted

Are you planning to have a Memorial Day grill-out? If so, you’ll want to first check with your governing documents to determine if you’re allowed to grill in your association and see what types of grills are allowed.

The Location of a Grill

Where a grill is placed in an HOA is very important to ensure fire-safety measures are always maintained. Residents must operate a grill away from any combustible material such as wood and vinyl siding. Also, your governing documents will instruct on where grills can be placed such as on a deck or in a designated common area.

Grill Time

Now that you have the right grill and designated location, it’s time to preheat the grill for about 10-15 minutes. This will remove any unwanted food particles, debris, bacteria, or rust from coming in contact with the meats and veggies. Heating the grates will also help prevent meats such as chicken from sticking to it.

Next, you must scrape the grates down with a grill brush to ensure you have a clean cooking surface. After this step is complete, it’s time to throw the food on the grill.

As you’re grilling, never leave the grill unattended. Always be present and keep a fire extinguisher close by in case of any mishaps.

Clean-Up After Grills

Once you’re done grilling, it’s time to turn the grill off and clean-up. Scrape the grates with a grill brush, remove any grease drippings, and dump the ash or food debris from inside the grill once it’s cold to the touch. If you’re grill is on your deck, be sure to also remove the cooled down grates and clean them with hot, soapy water.

Better Community Living Starts with AR Management

AR Management is a full-service property management company specializing in administration, management, and operation of community associations throughout Northern NJ. If your HOA needs property management assistance, contact us today!