Transfer Appliance Damage Liability in Rentals

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Examine your lease for appliance clauses on repair and ownership.
• Photograph each appliance, serial number, and visible wear as baseline evidence.
• Test appliances for issues, noting noises, leaks, or malfunctions.
• Request landlord’s written acknowledgment of any pre-existing appliance defects.
• Clarify in writing who handles routine maintenance to prevent disputes.
• Collect appliance manuals and warranty details to understand coverage.
• Request written clarification on repair responsibility for wear versus misuse.
• Document landlord maintenance visits or repairs with dates and outcomes.
• Notify landlord in writing about malfunctions and keep all correspondence.
• Get receipts for tenant-paid repairs and confirm landlord approval before work.
• Photograph appliances at move-out, notating changes from move-in.
• Request a final walk-through with landlord to confirm appliance liability transfer.