Paying rent might not be fun, but you have to give to your landlord for a room here on earth. Landlords aren't obligated by law to provide appliances in their rentals, but some do. So, how often should your landlord replace appliances? We asked experts for a reasonable answer.
Landlords should replace appliances when they have reached the end of their lifespan or are right about to. The landlord should also replace or repair any old appliances before a new tenant moves in.Â
As the saying goes, no one puts on airs in a tavern except the landlord. Well, read on to see why this is so and find out the lifespan of different appliances.
Changing Appliances In A Rental
Tenants might feel entitled to appliances, but the law doesn't require landlords to furnish their rentals with appliances. A landlord might put appliances to attract more long-term tenants and charge higher rents.
It isn't pleasant having a rugged-looking refrigerator, or an outdated television because you believe your landlord should provide one. You can request a replacement, but don't expect it to happen if an appliance is in working order.
It's the landlord's responsibility to replace any broken-down or outdated appliances only if it's a clause included in the lease. So, when you report a broken appliance, the landlord can send a technician.
How Long Can A Tenant Make To Do Without An Appliance?
Typically, when you report a broken appliance, the landlord should work on it immediately. The average time the landlord should take for repairs is 5 to 30 days.
The time frame in different states differs. Also, some states only suggest the time frame as 'reasonable'. The law applies only if the landlord is responsible for providing the appliance.
Luckily, a tenant can penalize the landlord for not doing repairs on time. Find out what the law stipulates in your state.
Which Repairs Aren't The Responsibility Of The Landlord?
According to the law, the landlord should provide suitable living conditions for the tenant. The landlord won't go around repairing everything all willy-nilly.
If everything was in working order when you moved in, you are responsible for any problems or issues that may occur after moving in. Issues might occur over time due to the normal wear and tear or accidents around the house.
Here is what your landlord is not responsible for:
- Dented walls and floorboards
- Running toilets and dripping faucets
- Broken windows
- Pest infestations (if the tenant isn't clean)
- Bathroom tiles and caulking
- Minimal plumbing issues
- Dead batteries in fire alarms
Tenants can request the landlord to help with the above issues for a separate fee.
How Long Does Each Appliance Last
As a landlord, when you equip your rentals with appliances, remember that they have a limited lifespan. Keep tabs on each appliance, so they can get replaced as needed.
Landlords might not always equip their rentals with new appliances every time. If a landlord equips a rental with second-hand appliances, they might still be in good condition.
However, some are at the end of their lifespan. Each appliance has a different lifespan from the other. Let's look at the four popular appliances to find out how long they last.
Kitchen Stoves
Landlords could pick either gas or electric stoves. Gas stoves are simpler and last longer than electric stoves for at least 5 years. Electric stoves mostly last for about 13 years, while gas stoves for 15 years.
Check this kitchen stove on Amazon
Refrigerator
Fridges are essential appliances and often last for 7 to 10 years. Some brands could last for 15 years.
Dishwasher
Most tenants would gladly rent property already equipped with a dishwasher. Good quality dishwashers can last up to 10 years even with constant use.
Have a look at this dishwasher on Amazon
Microwaves
There aren't many homes without microwaves. Luckily, manufacturers make them durable enough. They often last from 7 to 10 years. Landlords should change them when they reach the 10-year mark.
Washing Machines
Washing machines last for 10 to 13 years. Both top-loading and side-loading washing machines serve for about the same amount of time.
All appliances can last longer than their lifespans with proper use and maintenance. Landlords should make a point of servicing the appliances regularly. Ideally, they could schedule bi-monthly check-ups.
How Long Can A Landlord Take To Fix Other Repairs?
Leaks, broken taps, etc, need constant repair. Your landlord should make the repairs as soon as they are reported. It should take 3 to 7 days for critical repairs .
Other non-critical repairs may take a month for the landlord to get to them. But regulations may differ from state to state.
What To Do If Landlord Doesn't Make Repairs?
Tenants have some things they could do if their tenant isn't attending to reported issues. As a tenant, you should do the following according to the laws and regulations of your state.
- Act as a united front with the other tenants and demand repairs.
- Withhold the rent you are due to pay if the landlord isn't taking any action.
- Repair and deduct the cost of the repairs from the total rent. However, before you do this, find out what you could repair.
- Terminate your lease if the landlord blatantly refuses to do anything.
- Sue the landlord for violating the terms and conditions of the lease you both signed.
Before renting an apartment or flat, read reviews and ask about the landlord for other tenants. Thorough research will save you a lot of heartache and sleepless nights.
Who To Call When The Landlord Doesn't Make Repairs
When your landlord turns a blind eye and a deaf ear, it's frustrating for a tenant. Not every tenant knows their rights and obligations. Calling a helpline might be the only solution left for the tenant to get the landlord to do something about repairs.
You could call or visit the local code enforcement office or the health department. In Connecticut, for example, you could contact CTLawHelp. The organization helps residents with legal matters.
How To Replace Appliances Effectively
Both the tenant and landlord should understand how to effectively replace appliances. The knowledge will help the tenant find an alternative during the replacement. The landlord should be able to make replacements in the shortest time possible.
When an appliance is faulty, you should repair it. But when it constantly breaks down, you must replace it with a new one. The new one should be energy efficient to avoid crashing after a few months.
Replace appliances with durable and trusted brands for your rentals and get longer warranties. Some appliances might need replacing sooner than the end of their lifespan.
Check the wiring and outlets in your building to ensure that they don't damage or destroy appliances.
Uncommon Stylish Appliances
Each landlord wants to reap the benefits of owning rentals. Most tenants are downsizing, and smaller-scale appliances can help accommodate such clients.
Here are some unique and uncommon appliances landlords should consider for minimalistic rentals.
Countertop Dishwashers
Small kitchens have no space to accommodate a full-scale dishwasher. The landlord can purchase a countertop dishwasher that works just like any other dishwasher. It is space-saving, and the tenant can still enjoy using a dishwasher.
Check out this dishwasher on Amazon
Mini-Refrigerators
Although the mini-fridges aren't a new concept, manufacturers have gone further and made them more energy efficient. These mini-fridges come in many sizes and can still keep drinks, vegetables, and meats fresh without occupying the half kitchen.
Have a look at this retro mini-fridge on Amazon
Portable Cooktops
Minimalism has even expanded to cooking. Fewer people have the time to cook, but would love a simple home-cooked meal. With a neat-looking and simple-to-use cooktop, the tenant can quickly and easily prepare a snack.
Check out this cooktop on Amazon
Mini Laundry Washer
Comfort can never be too much! Other portable appliances landlords can put in their rentals are washing machines. The smaller they are, the easier they can get tucked away when not in use.
Here's an interesting laundry machine on Amazon
You can also buy these appliances for your minimalistic apartment, not only for a rental.
Final Thoughts
Read your lease before you ask your landlord to repair any appliances in your rental apartment. Know your rights and obligations. Remember that once the landlord is obligated to provide an appliance, they should repair it.
Everyone isn't capable of being a homeowner or wants the responsibility. But it does not mean you should compromise on comfort and efficiency! Try to have a cordial relationship with your landlord to avoid conflicts.
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