If you rent a home in British Columbia and the fridge, stove or other essential appliance breaks, do you know who should fix it? Understanding appliance repair responsibilities helps tenants and landlords avoid confusion and stress. This guide explains your rights, who must pay for repairs, and how to take action if a landlord is slow to fix your rental appliances.

Who Is Responsible for Appliance Repairs in BC Rentals?

Under the Residential Tenancy Act^[1], landlords in British Columbia are responsible for ensuring the rental unit – and any appliances provided with it – are safe and suitable for use. This includes keeping the fridge, stove, dishwasher, or laundry machines in good working order if those appliances were supplied when you moved in. Tenants are not expected to pay for normal wear and tear repairs.

Landlord Responsibilities

• Maintenance and repairs of appliances originally included in your tenancy agreement
• Replacing or repairing appliances that stop working due to age or regular use
• Acting quickly on repair requests, especially for essential items like fridges or stoves

However, if you or your guest caused the damage on purpose or by accident, the cost may be your responsibility.

Tenant Responsibilities

• Notifying the landlord in writing as soon as you notice a problem
• Using appliances properly and keeping them reasonably clean
• Paying for repairs if the damage was caused by negligence, misuse, or by your guests

To understand more about overall landlord and tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Reporting and Requesting Appliance Repairs

When an appliance needs repair:

• Contact your landlord right away – ideally in writing (email or letter)
• Include the date you reported the issue, a detailed description, and request a repair within a reasonable timeframe
• Keep copies of all communication for your records

If the appliance is essential for health or safety, such as a fridge, stove or heating, landlords must treat the problem as urgent. If you are experiencing hazardous conditions, learn more from Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What If the Landlord Won't Fix the Appliance?

If your landlord doesn't respond, or refuses to complete a required appliance repair, BC tenants have the right to take further action.

How to File for Repairs through the Residential Tenancy Branch

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the government authority that resolves disputes between tenants and landlords in British Columbia.

To get repairs ordered, tenants can apply for Dispute Resolution using the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) form.

• Form Name & Number: Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)
• When to use: If the landlord refuses to repair or replace a broken appliance after you have made a clear written request
• Official resource: Access the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)

With this process, you can request that the RTB order the landlord to make the repair, or allow you to do it and deduct costs from your rent – but always get permission before paying for repairs yourself.

What Counts as an Emergency vs. Routine Appliance Repair?

Emergency repairs are urgent issues that put your health or safety at risk or make the unit uninhabitable (e.g., a broken fridge in summer, a cooking appliance needed for daily meals). Routine repairs may take longer, but should be handled promptly. For further guidance, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Common Questions about Appliance Repairs in BC

1. Who pays for regular appliance maintenance in BC rentals?
   Landlords are responsible for the maintenance of appliances provided with the rental unit, unless the tenant is at fault for the damage.
2. If the fridge stops working, can I buy a new one and deduct it from rent?
   Not without the landlord’s written approval or an order from the RTB. Always request repairs and follow official dispute resolution steps if unresolved.
3. Can my landlord ask me to fix or replace an old appliance?
   Not if it is due to normal wear and tear. Tenants are only responsible for damage caused by misuse or negligence.
4. What if my lease says I am responsible for all appliance repairs?
   If the lease clearly states this, you may have to cover repairs – but landlords cannot contract out of all maintenance duties required by law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

• Landlords must repair or replace appliances supplied with the rental, unless tenant-caused damage
• Request repairs in writing and keep documentation
• The Residential Tenancy Branch can order repairs if a landlord refuses

For more on your rental rights and responsibilities, visit the Tenant Rights in British Columbia fact page.

Looking for a place with appliances included? Browse apartments for rent in Canada with updated listings and filter options.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Official dispute resolution, info, and forms
• Contact the RTB for advice or to ask questions
• Local tenant advocacy organizations (e.g. TRAC – Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre)
• For more facts on your rights, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)

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