Furnace Broke Down in Rental

[Wendy Jiang]

Hi all,

I am wondering if I need to compensate the tenants in this situation and I am looking for your advice:

Wednesday: Tenants called and informed the furnace was not working.

Thursday (today): The technician evaluated and suggested getting a new furnace. Sales also came and provided a quote right away, however, they have to wait until Monday to install it. I just drove by and dropped off two space heaters. Tenants will stay there tonight. It's 38 degrees now.

Friday-Sunday: Tenants are trying to figure out but will likely stay with their friends. The temperature will start to drop tomorrow. The low point will be 13 degrees on Sunday. 

Monday: New furnace will be installed.

I am debating if I should offer 5-day pro-rated rent as compensation. I made like 20 calls yesterday and today. This was the fastest solution I could possibly provide. I wonder what you would do in my situation. Thank you!

[Nathan Gesner]

It's a personal choice. You already offered them a solution to stay warm. They've already told you they can stay with friends. You would have to do the same thing if your furnace went out. 

You may want to keep the taps trickling to prevent frozen pipes while it sits empty.