Washing machine problem

jamieslucky7

We reported a washing machine problem to our landlord which turned out to be a coin in the sump and a bit of paper wrapper round the filter.

Is he right to bill us for the labour? If so, can we tell him to take it out of our deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Appreciated.

theartfullodger

In my humble opinion that would depend on/....


....What caused the problem - the action of the tenants or something from before you became tenants...

- If you are certain that it was not you then it would seem unfair for him to bill you.

How long have you been tenants?? If for quite some time it would seem reasonable to assume it must be you... However if you've only been there 3 days and the problem occurred the first time you used the machine... probably not you

What does the tenancy agreement say about repairs reported to Landlord that turn out not to be his responsibility?? For example one I use (Scottish but I think the principle would apply in England & Wales) states
"

15.4 DEFECTIVE FIXTURES AND FITTINGS
The Landlord will repair or replace any of the fixtures, fittings or furnishings, supplied by the Landlord in the accommodation, which become defective through usual wear and tear; and will do so within a reasonable period of time. Nothing contained in this Agreement makes the Landlord responsible for repairing damage caused wilfully or negligently by the Tenant, anyone living with the Tenant or an invited visitor to the property. Should the Landlord be required to carry out the work, the Tenant must pay the cost of the repair. The Tenant hereby agrees to pay the costs of repair. This paragraph does not apply to damage caused by fair, wear and tear or vandals (provided that the Tenant has reported the damage to the Police and to the Landlord as soon as the damage is discovered).


15.5 PAYMENT FOR REPAIRS
The Tenant will be liable for the cost of repairs where the need for them is attributable to his fault or negligence, that of any person residing with him, or any guest of his. The Landlord may deduct such costs at the termination of the tenancy from the deposit under Clause 7.



"

so under the terms of that agreement he can bill if caused by tenant & can deduct from deposit. Otherwise, a bit of a matter for debate...

Whatever happens, I'd suggest it would be unwise for you & the Landlord to fall out over this (hopefully relatively) small matter. Do you want to stay in the property & are other things OK ??

Cheers & Good luck

Artful...

jamieslucky7

Overall he seems to be a fair landlord. We have been here for 7 months, so it's likely the problem was caused by us, so I don't mind paying up.

Geenie

I would pay up. It was your coin and paper that caused the problem.

The deposit is for when you leave, and not to be used during the tenancy.

Planner

Quite simple, if you broke it you should pay.

I would suggest that theartfullodgers Scottish tenancy paragraph 15.4 is a little too 'risque' for the English/Welsh system as it seems to remove some of the LLs repaing responsibilities (even if it is deliberate/negligent on the tenants part), which doesnt sit well with a English/Welsh landlords reparing responsibilities (in some instances) in English/Welsh Law.

I wouldnt like to comment if its correct for the Scottish system, but I would venture not necessarily.

1984ReturnsForReal_2

jamieslucky7 wrote: »

We reported a washing machine problem to our landlord which turned out to be a coin in the sump and a bit of paper wrapper round the filter.

Is he right to bill us for the labour? If so, can we tell him to take it out of our deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Appreciated.

1) You broke it accidentally

2) Your resposible

3) He is right to bill you

Come to an arrangement that you BOTH are happy with..

Robert_Sterling_3

I think you are being very reasonable in asking your question.

I agree with earlier answers.

I think you should pay.

clutton_2

your coin your paper your responsibility - i'd pay up now and get a receipt

kaya

sumps are made to catch coins in, gravity helps, but you should have cleaned the filter before calling anyone.