How do I account for fireplaces?

Q. How do I account for fireplaces? 

A. When they are contributing value, fireplaces are one of many components that should be considered when rating the overall quality of an "equivalent" dwelling. Quality level 3.0 is deemed "average" quality; however, much of what we see as a minimum quality level is more like a 3.5, which would likely include one standard fireplace. We should note that in some areas, fireplaces contribute no value (as local ordinances may severely limit or prohibit their use). In these cases, fireplaces should not be included in the "replacement cost," as a new equivalent dwelling would likely not have a fireplace.