Should Tenant Pay For Appliance Repair?

When an appliance breaks in a rental unit, one of the first questions that arises is: should the tenant pay for appliance repair? The answer isn’t always straightforward—it depends on the type of appliance, the lease agreement, the cause of the damage, and even local landlord-tenant laws.

In this article, we’ll break down tenant vs. landlord responsibilities, relevant Texas laws, and what to do if you’re unsure who should cover the cost of repair.

Texas Property Code on Appliance Repair Responsibility

In Texas, the Property Code Chapter 92 outlines the obligations of landlords to maintain a livable property. While it primarily addresses plumbing, HVAC, and structural elements, it also implies that landlords are responsible for repairing or replacing appliances that are provided as part of the lease.

This includes:

• Ovens and stoves

• Refrigerators

• Dishwashers

• Built-in microwaves

• Washers and dryers (if included in the lease)

Source: Texas Property Code – Chapter 92

When the Landlord Typically Pays

A landlord is generally responsible when:

• The appliance is listed in the lease as part of the rental property

• The failure is due to normal wear and tear

• The tenant promptly reports the issue

• The damage wasn’t caused by tenant misuse or negligence

For example, if the refrigerator stops cooling or the dryer won’t turn on, and the tenant hasn’t tampered with it, the landlord must usually fix it.

If you're a landlord in Central Texas and need reliable appliance repair support, check out our appliance repair services.

When the Tenant Might Be Responsible

A tenant may need to pay if:

• The appliance was damaged due to negligence, misuse, or unauthorized repair attempts

• The appliance was brought in by the tenant and is not owned by the landlord

• The lease clearly states the tenant must maintain or repair specific appliances

Examples include:

• Breaking a dishwasher door by standing on it

• Overloading a washer and damaging the drum

• Causing a refrigerator coolant leak by poking around the back of the unit

When in doubt, always refer to the written lease agreement.

Lease Language Matters

Your lease should specify:

• Who owns each appliance

• Who is responsible for routine maintenance

• What to do in the event of a breakdown

If it’s not in the lease, Texas law generally favors the landlord taking responsibility for essential appliances.

Tips for Tenants

• Report issues quickly to avoid blame for worsening damage

• Document communications with your landlord

• Don’t attempt DIY repairs unless permitted in writing

• Review your lease annually for changes in terms

Tips for Landlords

• Include appliance terms clearly in the lease

• Conduct move-in inspections and take appliance photos

• Schedule preventive maintenance for aging appliances

• Work with local, responsive appliance repair services to resolve issues promptly

What If You Disagree?

If a dispute arises:

• Refer to the lease language first

• Consider mediation before taking legal action

• Contact your local housing authority or an attorney

In Central Texas, renters and landlords alike can consult city code enforcement or the Texas Attorney General’s Office for tenant rights guidance.

Final Thoughts

So, should tenants pay for appliance repair? Not always. If the appliance was provided by the landlord and broke due to age or normal use, it’s likely the landlord’s responsibility. But tenants may be liable if damage was due to misuse, neglect, or if the appliance is personally owned.

Need an appliance fixed in a rental unit? Schedule service with Central TX Home Pros today. We serve landlords and tenants across Killeen and Central Texas with fast, reliable repairs.