oven not working - Landlord Forum thread 341155

oven not working by Anonymous on November 27, 2015 @16:57

Oven in rental is not working and will be replaced. However, tenant complained that she can't manage with microwave only and asks for me to reimburse her for food during the time that oven is being replaced. I.e. she has to buy cold cuts instead of cooking. Is this fair? Also, even if oven is working she still needs to buy food so how would I figure out what portion am I "supposed" to reimburse? Don't see anything in the lease related to the subject.

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Re: oven not working by Barbara on November 27, 2015 @18:08	[ Reply ]

You should be able to replace or repair an oven in 1-3 days. Your tenant can get by during that time, just like when the power is out do to a storm. Have you verified the oven is not working? Is it gas or electric? Could be as simple as a bad igniter for a gas oven or replacing the heating element in an electric oven.

Re: oven not working by Anonymous (FL) on November 27, 2015 @18:41	[ Reply ]

You need to have a working stove in the unit that is as good or better installed within a reasonable time; however, it is not an emergency within any stretch of the imagination. I would say that having a replacement within 1 to 3 days is reasonable...but something like a week is too long. The tenant's request for reimbursement is unreasonable IF you remedy the situation relatively quickly. Of course, if you have other vacancies in the area the quick fix is to move a stove from one of those and put the replacement in the vacancy. It may be a bit more work, but at least the immediate situation is resolved. Worse case, get a dual hot plate from Walmart for $25.00 and have her use that for a few days.

Re: oven not working

Re: oven not working by Anonymous on November 27, 2015 @22:25	[ Reply ]

This coming Monday? I'd get her some gift certs for some local food places that deliver or that she could go to. Honestly, this is a terrible weekend for that to happen, and if she's a good tenant, make an accomodation

Re: oven not working by Maggie on November 27, 2015 @23:26	[ Reply ]

Is it just the oven that is not working? How about the burners? Tell the tenant you are doing the best you can and that you will not be able to cater her meals in the meantime. I guess you could be happy that your tenant is not dictating the replacement type and brand.