Who Is Responsible for Appliance Repairs in PEI Rentals?
When a fridge stops working or a stove malfunctions in your Prince Edward Island rental, it's important to know who is responsible for fixing the issue. Understanding appliance repair duties can help avoid disputes and ensure your home stays safe and comfortable. This guide breaks down landlord and tenant responsibilities regarding appliance repairs in PEI, the process for requesting repairs, and what to do if things aren't fixed quickly.
Who Is Responsible for Appliance Repairs in Prince Edward Island?
In most rentals in PEI, landlords are responsible for repairing appliances that came with the unit, such as fridges, stoves, dishwashers, and washers/dryers. These responsibilities are clearly defined under the Prince Edward Island Residential Tenancies Act1. If an appliance was included when you moved in, the landlord must make sure it stays in working order throughout your tenancy unless your rental agreement says otherwise.
What If an Appliance Breaks Down?
If an appliance that belongs to the landlord breaks down, tenants should:
- Notify the landlord in writing as soon as you notice the problem
- Describe the issue clearly and ask when repairs will be made
It's a good idea to keep a copy of your request for your own records. Landlords must complete repairs within a reasonable timeframe to ensure the unit is fit to live in.
When Might a Tenant Be Responsible?
Tenants are usually only responsible for fixing or replacing appliances if:
- The appliance was supplied by the tenant, not the landlord
- The tenant, a guest, or pet caused damage by being careless or misusing the appliance
If you’re unsure, check your lease for any specific terms about appliances or review the section on Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Getting Appliance Repairs Completed: Steps and Forms
If your landlord does not respond to your repair request, PEI tenants have a process to follow:
- Send a written repair request (email or letter). Keep a record of it.
- If the issue is not resolved, you can apply for an order to have repairs completed using an official form.
The Application by Tenant (Form 2) is used to ask the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC)—the official body regulating tenancies in PEI—to order the landlord to make repairs. For example, if your landlord ignores your request to fix a broken fridge, you would submit this form.
How to use Form 2:
- Fill out the details of the repair issue and what you have done to seek repairs
- Submit the form online or in person at IRAC
- Wait for IRAC to review your application and schedule a hearing if needed
Tenants can learn more about the hearing process and what to expect on the official IRAC Residential Rental Property page.
If an appliance fault affects health or safety (such as a fridge for food safety or stove for cooking), highlight this in your complaint—landlords must prioritize emergency situations.
What About Appliance Maintenance?
While landlords must repair broken appliances (unless the damage was caused by the tenant), tenants are expected to use appliances properly and do basic upkeep—like cleaning a lint filter in a dryer or defrosting the fridge (if required). Report problems promptly to avoid being held responsible for further damage. For more on typical maintenance versus repair duties, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
What If The Problem Goes Unresolved?
If your landlord refuses to fix an essential appliance or delays unreasonably, you have further options:
- Apply to IRAC for an order to have repairs completed (using Form 2)
- Seek advice from a local tenant advocacy group or legal resource
See the section below for where to get help if you need it.
Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in PEI
Appliance repairs intersect with broader tenant rights and obligations in Prince Edward Island. To better understand your protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for a full overview of what landlords must provide and your rights to a safe, livable home.
FAQ: Appliance Repairs in Prince Edward Island Rentals
- Are tenants ever required to repair appliances themselves in PEI?
In most cases, tenants do not have to repair landlord-supplied appliances unless they caused the damage by misuse or neglect. Otherwise, the landlord is responsible. - How long does a landlord have to fix a broken appliance?
The law states repairs must be completed in a reasonable time. Urgent or essential repairs, like a fridge or stove, should be handled as soon as possible—for health and safety reasons. - What if the landlord refuses to repair a necessary appliance?
You can submit Form 2 to IRAC for a repair order. Keep documentation of all requests and evidence of the problem. - Does the landlord have to provide replacement appliances if the old one can't be fixed?
If the appliance was included with the rental, yes. The landlord must ensure you continue to have the promised amenities that came with your unit. - Where can I get help if my landlord won’t cooperate on appliance repairs?
Contact IRAC or the PEI Tenant-Landlord Support Centre for free advice, or consult local tenant advocacy services.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) – Residential Rental Property Page: Info, forms, and dispute resolution for PEI tenants
- Rental Property Forms (IRAC): Includes Form 2 for repair complaints
- PEI Tenant Support Centre: Call 1-800-501-6268 or visit Tenant Support PEI
- General PEI tenancy info: Government of PEI – Renting: Rights & Responsibilities
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