Are Landlords Responsible For Changing Broken Appliances?

Home | Blog | Are Landlords Responsible For Changing Broken Appliances?
Are Landlords Responsible For Broken Appliances | Dated White Kitchen | www.phillyaptrentals.com

Reading Time: ( Word Count: )

Typically, if it’s a major appliance that was in the apartment already such as a refrigerator, and the appliance has malfunctioned due to ‘normal wear and tear’, then yes, a landlord will repair or replace it (but check your lease for specifics).

If it’s a non-major appliance or if the damage was caused by misuse or abuse by the tenant, the landlord likely does not have to replace it. Again, check your lease. If the landlord decides to fix it and it was damaged caused by you, he/she may charge you for repairs or replacement.

Are there exceptions?

Apartment Lease with individual signing apartment lease

Yes, there are always exceptions – which is why you should call your specific landlord and check your lease. For example, if you live in an apartment and lease your washer/dryer through a 3rd party company, you may have to call that vendor to fix it.

What Happens to Broken Appliances in an Apartment?

There are a number of appliances that are found in apartments today, including dishwashers, fridges, freezers, microwaves, ovens, garbage disposals, heaters, air conditioners, washing machines, and dryers. Broken appliances in apartments can occur for a number of reasons:

  • General wear and tear
  • Improper use
  • Old or aging appliances
  • Overuse

Based on the specific cause of the breakdown, the responsibility to fix will lie with either you or your landlord. Again, typically, if due to normal wear and tear, a landlord will replace or repair the appliance.

What Is the Process for Changing Broken Appliances?

What is For Rent By Owner | Renter With Leaky Faucet | www.phillyaptrentals.com

First, if not obvious, the landlord will need to establish the appliance is indeed broken. Typically, a landlord will send maintenance personal over to asses the issue. If the appliance can be repaired, a landlord might schedule a repair. If not, the landlord will typically order a replacement.

What Appliances Are Included?

A typical apartment will come with a range/stove, refrigerator/freezer, HVAC appliances, and garbage disposal. Some may come with a microwave. Usually, landlords list the appliances provided with the apartment on the listing, but if you’re not sure, it is always best to check before signing any rental agreement.

In Summary

It goes without saying that any appliances supplied by the tenant are their own responsibility to maintain, replace and repair (if even allowed under the lease). It is always best to confirm these details, in writing, in the rental contract so that there is no room for miscommunication later.

Subscribe

* indicates required

Don't Forget to Share this post! If you like it!

Fidelity Management – Our content has been featured or mentioned nationally by some of the industry’s best websites including:
ApartmentGuide | Rent.com | MyFirstAmartment | RENTCafe | The Balance …and many more

Tags

Categories

Finding an Apartment

i

Leasing an Apartment

Living in an Apartment

Moving Into an Apartment

Neighborhoods

Things to Do In Philly

News and Announcements

Editor’s Picks

Ben Franklin Bridge leading into Philadelphia at sunset

Subscribe

Stay a Smart Renter. Join the Group!

* indicates required

Related Articles

Decorating Ideas for Smaller Apartment Bathrooms

Decorating Ideas for Smaller Apartment Bathrooms

When it comes to the bathroom, many tenants feel that decorating is a big challenge due to its small size and lack of flexibility. Thankfully, bathroom decor doesn't have to be complicated. There are plenty of ways tenants can spruce up their bathrooms without...

read more
Can I Sublet My Apartment?

Can I Sublet My Apartment?

If you are renting an apartment and have considered subletting, you’ve come to the right place. What Is Subletting? Since you found this article, you might already know what subletting is. But just in case, subletting is a term used to define the act of releasing your...

read more
2 Shares
Skip to main content
Share via
Copy link
Powered by Social Snap