In most cases, the stove in a rental apartment is considered part of the property and should remain with the apartment when a tenant moves out. If the previous tenant replaced the stove without the landlord's permission and did not inform you that the original stove was not working, they may not have the right to take the stove with them or sell it to you.
Here are some factors to consider:
Ownership: If the original stove belonged to the landlord or was provided by the landlord as part of the rental agreement, the tenant does not have the right to take it with them when they move out.
Unauthorized modifications: Replacing the stove without the landlord's permission may be a breach of the lease agreement, and the tenant may be responsible for returning the property to its original condition before moving out.
Disclosure: If the tenant was aware that the original stove was not working or had been replaced, they should have disclosed this information to you when you moved in.
Written agreements: Check your lease agreement or any written communication to see if there is any mention of the stove or any agreements related to appliances.
If the tenant is insisting on taking the stove with them or selling it to you, it's essential to clarify the situation with your landlord. Reach out to your landlord and inform them about the issue, providing any evidence or documentation you have regarding the stove. The landlord will have the final say on whether the stove should remain with the apartment or if it can be sold to you by the previous tenant.
In any case, it's always best to communicate with your landlord and seek their guidance on how to proceed. If there are any disputes or concerns, you may also want to consult with a legal professional or tenant rights organization in your area for further advice.