Understanding Appliance Repairs in Rental Properties
Appliance repairs in rental properties refer to fixing or maintaining essential household items such as fridges, cookers, ovens, washing machines, and sometimes dishwashers or tumble dryers. These appliances play a crucial role in everyday life, making it important for both landlords and tenants to understand their responsibilities when something goes wrong.
Keeping appliances in good working order is not just about convenience – it’s also about safety and ensuring your home meets acceptable living standards. Faulty appliances can pose risks such as electrical hazards, fire, or water leaks, and may also affect your ability to cook, clean, or store food safely.
Responsibility for repairing appliances in a rental property often depends on who owns the appliance and what your tenancy agreement says:
Landlord’s responsibility: If the appliance was provided by the landlord as part of the rental agreement, it is usually their duty to repair or replace it if it breaks down due to normal use. For example, if your tenancy came with a fridge or washing machine and it stops working, you should report the problem to your landlord or letting agent.
Tenant’s responsibility: If you brought the appliance into the property yourself, you are generally responsible for its maintenance and repair. Additionally, tenants must use all appliances correctly and avoid causing damage through misuse or neglect.
It’s important to check your tenancy agreement, as it may set out specific obligations or procedures for reporting and handling appliance repairs.
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are legally required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, as well as installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, sanitation, space heating, and heating water. While this law does not specifically mention appliances like fridges or washing machines, if these are included in the rental, they are usually considered part of the landlord’s responsibility.
For appliances that are not covered by the law, your tenancy agreement is the key document. Always review it to understand what is included and what steps to take if an appliance fails.
Appliance repairs are one part of the broader responsibilities that landlords and tenants share for keeping a rental property in good condition. Along with things like fixing leaks, maintaining heating systems, and ensuring the property is safe, keeping appliances in working order helps create a comfortable and secure home environment.
If you’re interested in understanding how appliance repairs fit within the bigger picture, you can learn more about general repairs and maintenance responsibilities in rental properties.
In summary, knowing who is responsible for appliance repairs, how to report problems, and where these duties fit within overall property maintenance can help prevent disputes and ensure your rental home remains safe and comfortable. Always communicate promptly with your landlord or letting agent if you have any concerns, and keep records of any issues and repairs.
Landlord Responsibilities for Appliance Repairs
When you rent a property in the UK, your landlord has clear legal responsibilities for repairing and maintaining certain appliances provided as part of your tenancy. Understanding these obligations can help you know what to expect and what to do if something stops working.
Landlords are generally responsible for repairing and maintaining any appliances that are supplied with the property as part of the rental agreement. This typically includes:
Boilers and central heating systems: Landlords must keep heating and hot water systems in good working order.
Cookers and ovens: If these are provided, landlords must ensure they are safe and functional.
Fridges and freezers: Where supplied, these must be kept in reasonable repair.
Washing machines and dishwashers: If included in your tenancy, landlords are responsible for repairs unless your contract states otherwise.
However, if you brought your own appliances (for example, your own microwave or washing machine), you are usually responsible for their upkeep and repair.
The main law covering repair duties is the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11. This law requires landlords to:
Keep in repair and proper working order the installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, sanitation, space heating, and heating water.
Maintain the structure and exterior of the property.
Appliances that are integrated into these systems – such as boilers and built-in ovens – are included in these obligations. If your tenancy agreement specifically lists other appliances as part of the let, your landlord is also responsible for their repair, unless the contract says otherwise.
For a broader overview of what your landlord must fix, see our guide on landlord repair obligations.
Landlords must carry out repairs within a reasonable time once they are made aware of a problem. Delays in fixing essential appliances like boilers or cookers can affect your health and safety, and may even make the property unfit for habitation. If a landlord fails to act promptly, you may have the right to escalate the issue through your local council or seek other remedies.
Many household appliances are electrical, so landlords must also comply with electrical safety regulations. The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require landlords to ensure all electrical installations and supplied appliances are safe at the start of the tenancy and remain safe throughout. This includes arranging regular electrical inspections and addressing any faults promptly.
For more on landlord duties around electrical safety, visit our electrical safety page.
Report problems promptly: Always notify your landlord or letting agent in writing as soon as you notice an appliance fault.
Check your tenancy agreement: Some contracts may specify additional appliances or clarify responsibilities.
Keep records: Save copies of all correspondence about repairs.
Know your rights: If repairs are delayed or refused, you may have options to get the work done or claim compensation.
For further details on your landlord’s legal repair duties, see Repairs under section 11 – Shelter England.
By understanding these responsibilities, you can help ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and compliant with UK housing standards.
Tenant Responsibilities for Appliance Repairs
As a tenant in the UK, it’s important to understand your responsibilities when it comes to the care and maintenance of appliances provided by your landlord. While landlords are generally responsible for repairing essential appliances they have supplied, tenants also have certain duties to ensure appliances remain in good working order and to avoid unnecessary damage.
Routine Care and Minor Maintenance
Tenants are expected to use all appliances – such as washing machines, fridges, ovens, and boilers – properly and in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes regular cleaning, checking for obvious issues like blocked filters, and replacing consumable items like light bulbs or vacuum cleaner bags. If you notice minor issues that can be safely resolved, such as resetting a tripped fuse or clearing a blocked drain, you should take reasonable steps to address them.
Reporting Appliance Faults or Breakdowns
If an appliance provided by your landlord stops working or develops a fault, you must report the issue promptly. Failing to notify your landlord or letting agent could make the problem worse and may affect your rights if the appliance causes damage or becomes unsafe. Make sure you follow the proper process for how to request repairs, which usually involves written communication such as an email or a letter. Clearly describe the problem, when it started, and any steps you have already taken.
Responsibility for Damage Caused by Misuse or Negligence
While landlords are responsible for fixing appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear, tenants can be held liable for repairs if the damage is caused by misuse or negligence. For example, overloading a washing machine, failing to clean filters, or attempting unauthorised repairs could result in you being charged for the cost of fixing or replacing the appliance. The terms of your tenancy agreement may also specify your obligations, so it’s important to check this document for any additional responsibilities.
Documenting Repair Requests and Communications
Always keep a record of any repair requests and related communications with your landlord or letting agent. This can include copies of emails, letters, and notes from phone calls. Having a clear paper trail is essential if there are disputes about how or when a problem was reported, or if repairs are delayed or refused. Documentation can also be helpful if you need to escalate the issue to your local council or seek further advice.
By understanding your responsibilities and acting quickly when issues arise, you can help ensure that appliances in your home remain safe and functional, while also protecting your rights as a tenant.
How to Report Appliance Repair Issues
If you find that an appliance in your rented home isn’t working properly – whether it’s the cooker, fridge, washing machine, or another essential item – it’s important to report the problem promptly. Here’s what you should do to make sure the issue is addressed quickly and efficiently.
Start by checking your tenancy agreement to see who is responsible for managing repairs. In most cases, you should contact your landlord directly. If your property is managed by a letting agent, they may handle repairs on the landlord’s behalf. For tenants living in council-owned properties, there are specific procedures for council housing repair reporting.
It’s best to report appliance faults in writing – by email or through your letting agent’s online portal – so you have a clear record. Include the following details to help your landlord or agent respond quickly:
A clear description of the appliance and the problem (e.g., “The oven isn’t heating up”).
The make and model of the appliance, if known.
When the issue started.
Any steps you’ve already taken (such as checking the fuse or power supply).
Photos or videos, if possible, to illustrate the problem.
Your contact details and preferred times for a repair visit.
Providing this information upfront can help avoid delays and ensure the right professional is sent to fix the issue.
Your landlord is legally responsible under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to keep the property and any supplied appliances in good repair, unless your tenancy agreement states otherwise. After you report the problem, your landlord or agent should arrange for repairs within a reasonable time. If you’re unsure about the process, see our step-by-step guide on how to request repairs.
Always save copies of your repair requests, any replies, and details of appointments or visits. Keeping a written record is important if there are delays or disputes later on. It can also support your case if you need to take further action, such as involving your local council or seeking advice from a tenants’ rights organisation.
If your landlord or agent doesn’t respond within a reasonable time, or refuses to carry out necessary repairs, you may have further options. For council tenants, follow the council housing repair reporting process. For private tenants, you can contact your local council’s environmental health department, especially if the fault affects your health or safety.
Reporting appliance issues promptly and keeping thorough records can help ensure repairs are carried out and your home remains safe and comfortable.
What to Do If Repairs Are Not Carried Out Promptly
If your landlord is slow to carry out appliance repairs or refuses to fix essential items, you have clear rights and options under UK law. Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities to ensure rental properties are safe and in good repair, and appliances provided as part of the tenancy are often included in this duty. Here’s what you can do if repairs aren’t addressed promptly:
Landlords are generally responsible for repairing appliances they have supplied with the property, such as ovens, fridges, or washing machines. This responsibility is set out in your tenancy agreement and supported by laws like the Housing Act 1988, which requires landlords to ensure homes are safe and fit to live in. Tenants have the right to a habitable home, which includes functioning essential appliances if provided as part of the let.
If you’ve already reported the issue verbally, follow up with a written request – email is usually sufficient. Clearly describe the problem, when it started, and the impact it’s having on your day-to-day life. Keep records of all your communications, as this may be important if you need to escalate the issue.
If your landlord still doesn’t act, you can take further steps to get the repairs done:
Remind your landlord of their legal obligations. You can reference your tenancy agreement and, if needed, cite the Housing Act 1988.
Seek advice or mediation. If communication breaks down, consider mediation services or local advice centres for support.
Explore your next steps. For detailed guidance on formal complaints and escalation, see our guide on how to complain or escalate repairs issues.
If your landlord continues to ignore their responsibilities, you may be able to get help from your local council’s environmental health team. They can inspect the property and, if necessary, order your landlord to carry out repairs. In more serious cases, especially if your health or safety is at risk, the council can take enforcement action.
If the council’s involvement doesn’t resolve the issue, or if you believe your rights have been breached, you may be able to take your case to a housing tribunal. You can also escalate complaints to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman if you’re unhappy with how the council has handled your case.
Remember, you are entitled to live in a property that is safe and in good repair. If essential appliances provided by your landlord are not fixed, and this affects your health or ability to live comfortably, you have the right to take action. For more details on your options if your landlord is refusing to act, see if your landlord refuses or won’t pay for repairs.
Taking the right steps can help ensure repairs are handled promptly, and your home remains a safe and comfortable place to live.
Handling Repair Costs and Invoices
When it comes to appliance repairs in rental properties, understanding who pays for what can help avoid confusion and disputes. Here’s what you need to know about handling repair costs and invoices as a tenant or landlord in the UK.
Responsibility for appliance repairs largely depends on who owns the appliance and what’s stated in your tenancy agreement. Generally:
Landlord’s responsibility: If the appliance (such as a fridge, washing machine, or oven) was provided by the landlord as part of the tenancy, the landlord is usually responsible for keeping it in good working order and covering the cost of repairs. This duty is supported by Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which requires landlords to maintain installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation, though it doesn’t specifically mention appliances. However, if the appliance is included in the inventory, the landlord is expected to maintain or replace it unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise.
Tenant’s responsibility: If you brought your own appliance into the property, you are responsible for its upkeep and any repairs needed due to normal use or accidental damage.
You might receive an invoice from your landlord for appliance repairs in certain situations, such as:
Damage caused by misuse: If it’s clear that the appliance was damaged due to neglect or improper use (for example, overloading a washing machine), the landlord may charge you for repairs or replacement.
Agreed responsibility: Your tenancy agreement may specify that tenants are responsible for certain appliances or minor repairs. Always check your contract for these details.
If your landlord sends you a repair invoice, don’t panic. Start by reviewing your tenancy agreement and any inventory list to confirm whether the appliance in question is your responsibility. If you believe the charge is unfair or you’re unsure why you’ve been invoiced, gather any relevant communication and evidence (such as photos or maintenance records).
For step-by-step advice on what to do next, see if your landlord sent you an invoice for repairs.
Tenants are protected against unfair charges under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Tenant Fees Act 2019 (for assured shorthold tenancies in England). Landlords cannot make you pay for repairs that are their legal responsibility or charge excessive amounts. Any deductions from your deposit for repairs must be reasonable and justified.
If you feel you’ve been unfairly charged, you can:
Raise the issue directly with your landlord or letting agent.
Seek advice from your local council’s housing department or a tenancy advice service.
Challenge unreasonable deductions through a deposit protection scheme if your deposit is held in one.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help ensure that appliance repairs are handled fairly and transparently, keeping your home safe and well-maintained.
Appliance Repairs in the Kitchen and Other Areas
When it comes to appliance repairs in rental properties, the kitchen is often the main area of concern. Appliances such as cookers, ovens, fridges, and washing machines are essential for daily living, and knowing who is responsible for fixing them can help prevent disputes between landlords and tenants.
In the UK, the responsibility for repairing kitchen appliances depends on what is included in your tenancy agreement. Generally:
Landlord-provided appliances: If the landlord supplied the cooker, fridge, or other appliances as part of the tenancy, they are usually responsible for ensuring these items are kept in good working order. This responsibility stems from Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which requires landlords to keep the installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation in repair and proper working order. While this law covers things like sinks and boilers, it doesn’t automatically include standalone appliances. However, if appliances are listed in your inventory or tenancy agreement, the landlord is typically expected to repair or replace them if they break down through no fault of your own.
Tenant-owned appliances: If you brought your own fridge, washing machine, or other appliances, you are responsible for their maintenance and repair.
Kitchen appliance repairs are closely linked to kitchen repairs in general. Issues like a broken oven or faulty extractor fan can affect your ability to use the kitchen safely and comfortably. Some repairs may also involve the kitchen’s structure, such as damaged worktops or plumbing problems under the sink. In these cases, landlords are usually responsible for repairs that affect the fabric or safety of the property.
Understanding who is responsible for appliance repairs helps you know what to expect, but it’s also important to be aware of other common repairs in rental properties. For example, if your home suffers from leaks and roof repairs, these are almost always the landlord’s responsibility, as they relate to the building’s structure and weatherproofing.
Check your tenancy agreement: This will outline which appliances the landlord must maintain.
Report problems promptly: Notify your landlord or letting agent in writing as soon as an appliance breaks down. This creates a record and helps ensure repairs are carried out quickly.
Allow reasonable time for repairs: Landlords are expected to act within a reasonable timeframe, especially if the issue affects your health or safety.
Knowing who is responsible for repairs in different parts of your home can help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure your living environment remains safe and comfortable. If you’re unsure about your rights or your landlord refuses to carry out necessary repairs, you may want to seek further advice or contact your local council for support.
By staying informed about your responsibilities and those of your landlord, you can help maintain a well-functioning home and resolve issues more effectively.
How Appliance Repairs Affect Your Tenancy Deposit
When it comes to your tenancy deposit, appliance repairs can play a significant role in what you get back at the end of your tenancy. Understanding how these issues are handled can help you protect your money and avoid unnecessary disputes.
If appliances provided by your landlord – like fridges, washing machines, or ovens – break down, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to repair or replace them, unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise. However, if you fail to report a fault promptly or misuse an appliance, your landlord may argue that you’ve caused damage through neglect. In such cases, they could make deductions from your deposit to cover repair or replacement costs.
For example, if you notice a problem with the washing machine but don’t inform your landlord, and the issue worsens, you could be held responsible for the additional damage. This is why it’s essential to report any appliance issues as soon as they arise and keep records of your communications.
Landlords are allowed to deduct money from your deposit for damage or neglect that goes beyond normal wear and tear. This includes situations where an appliance has been damaged due to improper use, or if you’ve failed to maintain it according to the instructions provided. However, they cannot charge you for repairs that are their responsibility under the tenancy agreement or for faults caused by fair usage.
The rules around rental deposits are designed to ensure fairness, but disputes can arise if there’s a disagreement over who is responsible for the damage. For further details on what landlords can and cannot deduct, you can refer to the Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme guidance from Shelter England.
To safeguard your deposit, always:
Report appliance faults in writing as soon as you notice them.
Keep copies of all correspondence with your landlord or letting agent.
Take photos or videos of any damage or issues when you move in and out.
Follow any care instructions for appliances provided in your tenancy agreement.
If your landlord tries to deduct money for appliance repairs you believe are not your responsibility, you have the right to challenge the deduction through your deposit protection scheme’s dispute resolution service. The law requires your landlord to protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme – see the Housing Act 2004, Section 213 for the full legal requirements.
Most deposit disputes stem from disagreements over who is responsible for repairs or damage. Clear communication, prompt reporting, and understanding your rights and responsibilities can help prevent these issues. By knowing what’s expected of you – and what your landlord must do – you can reduce the risk of losing part of your deposit over appliance repairs at the end of your tenancy.
Additional Resources and Related Topics
When dealing with appliance repairs in a rental property, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. To help you navigate these issues, we’ve gathered additional resources and related topics that provide further guidance and support.
If you want to know more about your landlord’s general responsibilities, including which repairs fall under their legal duty, see our guide on what your landlord has to repair. This resource covers not only appliances but also other essential aspects of property maintenance, such as heating, plumbing, and structural repairs. Understanding these broader obligations can help you determine whether a specific appliance issue is your landlord’s responsibility or your own.
Appliance repairs are often closely linked with issues around utilities and energy supply. For example, if a cooker or boiler isn’t working, it might be due to a power or gas supply problem rather than a fault with the appliance itself. Our utilities and energy supply page explains what to do if you experience interruptions, how to report problems, and what your landlord must do to ensure your home remains safe and habitable.
Exploring these related topics will give you a more complete picture of your rights as a tenant and the steps you can take if repairs are delayed or refused. They also provide practical advice on communicating with your landlord, keeping records, and escalating issues if necessary. By making use of these resources, you’ll be better equipped to manage appliance repairs and maintain a safe, comfortable home.
For more information, we encourage you to read through the linked guides above. They offer in-depth explanations, real-life examples, and answers to common questions – helping you feel confident in addressing any repair or maintenance concerns that arise during your tenancy.
