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As a landlord, you may wonder who is responsible for repairing or replacing the appliances in your rental property when they break down. Appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and microwaves can make your property more attractive and comfortable for tenants, but they also require maintenance and care. To avoid disputes and confusion, you should have a clear appliance repair policy in your rental lease agreement that outlines the rights and obligations of both parties.

What to Include in Your Appliance Repair Policy

Your appliance repair policy should cover the following aspects:

  • The list of appliances provided by the landlord. You should specify which appliances are included in the rental unit and their condition at the time of move-in. You can also attach an inventory list with the model and serial numbers of each appliance for easy identification.
  • The landlord’s responsibility for appliance repair. You should state that you will maintain the appliances in good working order and repair or replace them if they malfunction due to normal wear and tear. You should also indicate how soon you will respond to repair requests and how you will notify the tenant of any delays or disruptions.
  • The tenant’s responsibility for appliance care. You should state that the tenant must use the appliances properly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also require the tenant to report any problems or damages to the appliances as soon as possible and cooperate with the repair process. You should prohibit the tenant from attempting to fix the appliances themselves or hiring unauthorized contractors without your consent.
  • The consequences of appliance misuse or neglect. You should state that if an appliance breaks down or needs replacement due to the tenant’s misuse or neglect, such as overloading, improper cleaning, or intentional damage, the tenant will be liable for the cost of repair or replacement. You should also specify how you will deduct the amount from the tenant’s security deposit or charge them separately.
  • The exceptions and limitations of the policy. You should state that you are not responsible for repairing or replacing any appliances that belong to the tenant or that are not provided by you in the rental unit. You should also state that you are not liable for any losses or damages caused by appliance failure, such as spoiled food or water damage, unless it is due to your negligence or breach of warranty.

How to Enforce Your Appliance Repair Policy

To ensure that your appliance repair policy is effective and enforceable, you should follow these steps:

  • Put it in writing. You should include your appliance repair policy in your rental lease agreement and have both parties sign it. You should also provide a copy of the policy to the tenant along with any other relevant documents, such as manuals or warranties for the appliances.
  • Inspect the appliances regularly. You should inspect the appliances before and after each tenancy and document their condition with photos or videos. You should also conduct periodic inspections during the tenancy to check for any signs of wear and tear or damage.
  • Communicate with the tenant. You should maintain a good relationship with your tenant and encourage them to contact you if they have any issues or concerns with the appliances. You should also respond promptly and professionally to any repair requests and keep the tenant informed of the status and progress of the repair work.
  • Keep records of everything. You should keep records of all communications, invoices, receipts, estimates, warranties, and other documents related to appliance repair or replacement. These records can help you prove your compliance with your policy and support your claims in case of a dispute.

Conclusion

Having a clear appliance repair policy in your rental lease agreement can help you protect your investment, avoid conflicts with your tenant, and comply with your legal obligations as a landlord. By following these tips, you can write an appliance repair policy that suits your needs and expectations.