Q: Landlord Replaced Broken Appliance, Has Not Installed It After Repeated Requests
Landlord replaced a broken washer and dryer, but is refusing to install it. The washer and dryer is an amenity of the apartment. I have made several requests, via text and email to have someone install it, but they either go unanswered or they say they will install it and never do. I want to hire my own technician to properly install the washer and dryer and take the cost out of my rent. I understand that there is precedent to do this if there was a critical issue; however, since this is only a replacement appliance, I want to know my rights before moving forward.
A: Advise your landlord that the washer and dryer which were amenities in the apartment must be installed and working by February 26th. If not completed by the you may either retainer the services of a licensed plumber and deduct the cost of installation from March 1, 2021. A less favorable alternative, withhold the March 1st rent payment from the Landlord. Open a separate savings account entitled 'Rent Escrow Account'. Pay the monthly rent into that account in a timely fashion until the Landlord completes the installation. Be sure to keep accurate records for the cost of having your laundry washed and folded at a laundromat. Deduct the cost from the monthly rent paid into the Rent Escrow Account.
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