Living in a rented home means you share the upkeep of appliances with your landlord. Knowing who pays for what can save you from awkward conversations and surprise bills. Below we break down the basics, so you know when it’s your job to call a repair tech and when the landlord should step in.
Most tenancy agreements expect you to keep appliances clean and use them properly. That means regularly defrosting your freezer, clearing lint from a dryer, and not overloading the washing machine. If a problem crops up because of everyday wear and tear – for example, a cracked glass on a stove top after a kitchen fire – the landlord is generally responsible for fixing it.
However, if you ignore the user manual, misuse a device, or fail to report a minor issue promptly, you could be on the hook for the repair. A common example is a clogged dishwasher filter that you haven’t cleaned for months, leading to a pump failure. In that case, the cost of a new pump often falls to the tenant.
Landlords must provide appliances that are safe and in working order at the start of the tenancy. If an oven stops heating due to an internal fault, or a fridge stops cooling because the compressor fails, the landlord should arrange a qualified repair service – like Northampton Appliance Repairs Services – and cover the expense.
Some landlords include a clause that they’ll handle any repair over a certain amount, say £150. Anything below that might be your responsibility, especially if you caused the damage. Always check your rental agreement for a cost threshold and keep a copy handy.
First, document the condition of every appliance when you move in. Take photos, note any quirks, and share them with the landlord. This creates a clear baseline and protects you if a future problem is blamed on you.
Second, report issues as soon as you see them. A small leak in a washing machine can become a major flood if ignored. Prompt reporting shows you’re acting in good faith and gives the landlord a chance to fix the issue before it worsens.
Third, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Change fridge water filters, clean oven fans, and descale your kettle regularly. When you keep appliances in good shape, you reduce the chances of a breakdown that could end up costing you.
If a repair is needed, ask the landlord for permission before hiring anyone. Some contracts require you to use a vetted service provider. Using a local, reputable firm ensures the work meets safety standards and keeps the landlord happy.
Finally, keep receipts for any repairs you pay for. If the landlord later acknowledges the fault was theirs, you can request reimbursement. Having a paper trail makes the negotiation smoother.
Bottom line: treat appliances like shared tools. Clean them, use them right, and speak up early when something goes wrong. By staying on top of maintenance, you protect your deposit, keep the home comfortable, and avoid unexpected repair bills. Need a professional to handle a stubborn oven or a noisy fridge? Northampton Appliance Repairs Services offers quick, reliable fixes for renters and landlords alike.
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