Tenants broke water heater, do I have to pay to replace it

[Zenna Weis]

we own a home in a rural community and the home runs on propane, all utilities including propane are to be covered by the tenants. In November 2023 they ran out of it completely until late Jan 2024-early Feb 2024. In that time the water heater (brand new and installed 2022) built up soot on the ignition area, at one point the tenant repaired themselves and it worked but went out again. I had a plumber out today that said the amount of soot build up on the ignition makes it unusable and basically the whole unit needs replacement. What is my right as that was brand new and completely ruined due to tenants negligence?

[Bob H.]

I have never dealt with a propane-fueled water heater, but I find the explanation by the plumber questionable. I have personally replaced the pilot assembly in a gas-fired water heater. I don't see why a problem with soot on one part would require replacing a 2-year-old unit. I think you want to know what caused the soot to build up. I also don't understand why running out of propane would ruin the water heater. Wouldn't it just turn off?