Question

What do I do about the old fridge in my apartment? The food and drinks I have in the fridge hardly feel cold and the food in my freezer thaws. Should I contact my property manager about this or is there nothing they will do?

Answer 1

If your refrigerator is not functioning properly and your food is not staying cold, it is essential to address the issue to ensure food safety and prevent spoilage. Here are the steps you can take:

1. Troubleshoot: Before contacting your property manager, make sure to check a few things to rule out any simple issues. Ensure that the refrigerator is plugged in and that the temperature settings are adjusted correctly. Also, check for any obstructions that might be blocking the vents or coils. If the fridge has a cooling issue, these simple checks might help identify and resolve the problem.

2. Inform the property manager: If you've tried troubleshooting and the issue persists, it's time to inform your property manager. They should be made aware of the problem as it is their responsibility to ensure that the appliances in the apartment are in good working condition.

3. Request repair or replacement: Let your property manager know about the cooling problems in the refrigerator and freezer. Request either a repair by a qualified technician or a replacement if the fridge is beyond repair. Many rental agreements include provisions for the landlord or property manager to take care of essential appliance repairs or replacements.

4. Document the issue: It's a good idea to document the problem with photos or videos as evidence in case there are any disputes later.

5. Be patient but persistent: Sometimes, repairs or replacements might take time, especially if specific parts need to be ordered. Be patient with the process, but don't hesitate to follow up with your property manager if the issue is not being addressed promptly.

6. Store perishables safely: While waiting for the refrigerator to be fixed or replaced, take precautions to keep your perishable food safe. You can use coolers with ice packs or ask a neighbor to store your food temporarily if they have extra space in their fridge.

Remember, landlords and property managers have a legal obligation to provide habitable living conditions, and a non-functioning refrigerator affects the habitability of your apartment. So, it's essential to inform them promptly and work towards resolving the issue.