If you are renting a house and the microwave, which is a provided appliance, stopped working, your landlord might have a legal obligation to address the issue and cover the cost of repairs or replacement, depending on the terms of your lease agreement and local tenant laws. Here are some steps you can take to address the situation:
Review Your Lease Agreement: Carefully read your lease agreement to see if it includes any provisions regarding appliance repairs or maintenance responsibilities. Some leases explicitly state that the landlord is responsible for maintaining and repairing appliances.
Communicate with Your Landlord: Contact your landlord again, preferably in writing (email or letter), explaining the issue with the microwave and politely requesting them to repair or replace it. Be sure to mention any relevant clauses in the lease that may support your position.
Check Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the tenant laws and regulations in your area, as they can vary depending on your location. Some areas have specific laws outlining the responsibilities of landlords for maintaining appliances.
Request Repairs in Writing: If your landlord refuses to address the issue, send a written request for repairs, stating your rights as a tenant and citing relevant local laws. Be sure to keep a copy of all written communication.
Document Everything: Keep a record of all interactions with your landlord, including dates, times, and details of the conversations. If you communicate via phone, consider following up with an email summarizing the discussion.
Mediation or Legal Advice: If the issue remains unresolved, you may consider seeking mediation services or legal advice from a tenant's rights organization or an attorney specializing in landlord-tenant law.
Repair and Deduct: Some jurisdictions allow tenants to pay for necessary repairs themselves if the landlord refuses to do so, and then deduct the repair cost from their rent. However, be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws and follow the proper procedures to avoid any legal issues.
Contact Local Housing Authorities: If all else fails, you can reach out to your local housing authority or tenant board for guidance and assistance in resolving the dispute.
Remember that tenant rights can vary significantly depending on your location, so it's essential to know the specific laws and regulations that apply in your area. Seeking legal advice or contacting local tenant organizations can provide you with the most accurate and relevant information for your situation.