What to do when repairs can not be done on time?

What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by Eve (California) on April 28, 2012 @15:37

Water heater was leaking at the property. Had a new one installed. New heater is defective- needs a new gas valve. Whirlpool will not send out part until Monday for delivery on Tuesday when plumber will be installing.

Tenant will be without hot water until then. I have done everything I can to get repair done in a timely manner. Not sure if it is required to compensate tenant for inconvenience.

Any advice will be appreciated. Thank you

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Re: What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by Jake on April 28, 2012 @15:54	[ Reply ]

Rent a decent motel room for the tenant until he has hot water again. Other landlords will offer advice about how to get around this and leave the tenant without hot water. But if you are asking what should be done. A reasonably priced hotel room is the answer.

Re: What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by Anonymous on April 28, 2012 @16:48	[ Reply ]

You can do what Jake suggested. Other LL will advise you to prorate the rent for the days without hot water.

Re: What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by James (MA) on April 28, 2012 @21:29	[ Reply ]

In my opinion it would not be required, since it is completely out of your hands. There is no guarantee in life that we will have what are pretty much "luxuries" 100% of the time. You made the effort to legitimately repair the water heater, so you would be covered. However, it could not hurt to knock a few bucks off the rent for the inconvenience. He could always showers at a families or friends house. I have replced water heaters where they were without for a couple days because of the time and my schedule, and they were more than understanding even without reduced rent. It happens.

Re: What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by Eric (MN) on April 28, 2012 @21:48	[ Reply ]

A couple of days is inconvienient, but not a disaster. You owe nothing. A shower at a truck stop is $5 or less. A cold shower at home is still available. Hot water can be heated on the stove for a bath. Give them a gift cert to a restaurant if you want.

Re: What to do when repairs can not be done on time? by Shelly (NM) on April 29, 2012 @20:43	[ Reply ]

Once they let you know (in writing) you have up to 7 days to fix it. If not fixed within that time frame, i.e., after 7 days, they are entitled to 1/3 per day rent abatement until the water heater is fixed. I agree though with the poster that you might discuss it with them and just give them a gift certificate to a restaurant for their inconvenience.