Oven failed gas check, agent gave me quote for repair?

ironflower

Bargainbunny -- I would still be disputing whether a build up of 'soot' is your problem.
I would call and speak to someone at the lettings agent, and be firm in your point that it is the landlord's responsibility to maintain the oven if it comes as part of the tenancy. They have the option to provide a property unfurnished. Seeing as they have not 'gifted' the appliance to you, and it will be there when you leave (ie.. you're not taking it with you, and it will be used by subsequent tenants) I would not be conceding it is your responsibility to pay it.
Also, what did the tradesman say? Did he say it is because you have not cleaned it?

Furthermore, express your concern about being left without the oven in the meantime.
I would definately make sure you are calling the agent and actually speaking to them. They will be speaking to their manager / investor and trying the best way to word the email to get you to agree to pay for it, and they are possibly hoping you just get bored and cough up.

Give them a call, and be firm.
Let us know how it goes.