Tenant wants to fix appliance

[Kyle M.]

So this is my first issue as a landlord. I told my tenant that I will check with my "partner", which is really BP. Basically there is a part in the washer that is broken. My tenant builds car engines and is confident that he can fix it. He says the cost of the part is $20 and is willing to buy it. Also, getting an appliance guy out there is proving to be troublesome. I would prefer to get someone licensed to fix it. Given the circumstance, what is the best way to handle this situation? Thinking of him buying it, and me deducting from rent. Thoughts?

[Jon Holdman]

Appliance repair folks aren't licensed here, either.  Appliances aren't complicated.  Washers have the risk, though, that a bad repair results in a water leak and subsequent damage.  Warn him that if there's a problem and the washer leaks, he's responsible for damage.  That's mostly a matter of doing the repair correctly and checking for leaks.

If you provided the washer with the unit, and don't have a clause about its repair, I'd let him go ahead.  Otherwise, find a repair guy ASAP.  This is why I minimize appliances in rentals to the bare minimum.  Fridge and range, basically.