If you’ve ever had a tenant’s appliances break, you’ve had to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. But is replacing an appliance more efficient than repairing it, or should you repair your appliances to keep them running longer?
Every landlord has had at least one emergency call from a tenant with a broken appliance. Whether it’s the refrigerator, washing machine, or AC unit, everything breaks sometimes, and repairing or replacing appliances is a normal part of the job. However, a sticking point for many people can be deciding when an appliance can be repaired and when it is best to simply remove and replace it.
Determining whether an appliance can be repaired or needs to be replaced is often dependent on multiple factors. Some repairs are more expensive than others, and some are simple, while others are more complex and time-consuming. In many cases, appliances simply get old and need replacement. This article will discuss how to determine if your appliance is repairable or if you should just replace it, and whether doing so yourself is better than hiring a professional.
What Can Be Repaired
Minor or cosmetic damage to an appliance can easily be repaired or simply noted for future reference if it doesn’t affect the functionality of the appliance. Additionally, simple repairs can be done by a contractor, or you can DIY your repair. For example, broken buttons and knobs are typically easy, quick repairs that can be done in a few minutes.
Whatever the ultimate decision, it should be made as quickly as possible to minimize the distress and inconvenience to your tenant. This is especially important if the appliance is necessary for your tenant’s quality of life. If not replaced promptly, a tenant may be entitled to alternative accommodations until the problem is resolved.
Learn more: Maintenance Expenses for Your Rental Property
When It’s Time to Replace
Replacing appliances can be frustrating, but in many cases, it is the right decision. If it costs more to repair an appliance than to replace it, choose the more affordable option. However, in some cases, the length of the repair time and the effort it would require might warrant spending the extra money on a replacement. This may be necessary if something a tenant absolutely needs is broken, such as a refrigerator.
Many replacements are done for the sake of saving time. Often, the time commitment of repairing an appliance is not worth the difficulty and inconvenience for yourself and the tenant. As such, you should consider the time commitment just as much as the cost. Tenants whose needs are met promptly are typically much happier and more likely to stay at your rental property. A broken fridge, for example, may not be worth the time investment of repairing when your tenant needs a new refrigerator as soon as possible. An AC unit, however, is not always essential for the function of the property, and can often wait a day or two until a contractor can be sent out to repair it. As long as repairs are as prompt as can reasonably be expected, a tenant will typically be happy with the solution.
Note that, in some areas, these essentials and amenities aren’t always consistent, such as air conditioning.
Learn more: Emergency or Can It Wait? Landlord Maintenance Tips – Video
DIY Repairs or Replacements VS Hiring Contractors
Many thrifty landlords aim to perform repairs and replacements themselves in order to save some money. However, while this may be a great option for some, especially if you’re handy or have experience working in home maintenance, it is not for everyone. Look into the difficulty level and what may be required of you before you decide to hire a contractor.
Consider the cost of a contractor’s labor when deciding whether to replace or repair a broken appliance. The cost of a contractor repairing your renter’s appliance may be the deciding factor between repairing and replacing said appliance.
Learn more: What to do When Struggling With Maintenance Workers
Final Thoughts
Rental appliance breaks can be stressful, but they’re easy to resolve. Learn about the problem, do your research, and learn about the cost of repairs and replacements. When you understand this cost, assess the difficulties and benefits of each option for your specific situation, and the time commitment of each option. Finally, make your decision with all of the information you have gathered.