Is It The Tenants Or Landlords Responsibility To Repair Or Replace A Broken Oven?

When the oven breaks down in a rented property, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it affects your ability to cook, eat, and live comfortably. But when it comes to fixing or replacing it, the question becomes: is it the tenant's responsibility or the landlord's?

The answer depends on a few key factors, including what’s in the tenancy agreement, how the damage occurred, and what the law says. This guide explores all aspects of oven responsibility in UK rentals so both tenants and landlords know where they stand.

What the Law Says About Repairs in Rented Properties

Before diving into tenancy agreements and blame, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework that governs repairs in the UK rental market. Legislation outlines the basic obligations that landlords cannot contract out of—even with the tenant’s agreement.

In England and Wales, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 sets the standard for repair responsibilities. Section 11 of the Act requires landlords to maintain the property’s structure and ensure essential systems (gas, water, electricity, and heating) are in good working order. While ovens aren’t named directly, if supplied by the landlord, they are generally covered by this duty.

When the Oven Is the Landlord’s Responsibility

In most rental scenarios, the oven is the landlord’s responsibility—but only under specific conditions. This typically applies when the oven was provided as part of the property at the start of the tenancy, either as a built-in appliance or listed on the inventory.

If the oven breaks due to general wear and tear—such as electrical failure, worn-out heating elements, or malfunctioning timers—the landlord must repair or replace it. This obligation exists regardless of whether the tenancy agreement mentions ovens explicitly. As long as the oven was part of the home when the tenancy began, it’s generally the landlord’s duty to keep it functional.

When the Tenant Might Be Responsible

While landlords usually take on appliance maintenance, tenants also have obligations. There are scenarios where a broken oven may fall under the tenant’s responsibility, particularly when damage is caused by misuse or negligence.

For example, if the tenant causes damage by using inappropriate cookware, neglecting cleaning to the point of mechanical failure, or accidentally breaking parts of the oven, they may be liable for the cost of repair or replacement. It’s also important to remember that if the oven was not included in the inventory or was brought in by a previous tenant, the landlord may not be responsible for it.

What If the Oven Was Supplied by the Tenant?

Not every oven found in a rental property belongs to the landlord. In some cases, tenants bring their own appliances with them. This changes the dynamic significantly.

If the oven was purchased and installed by the tenant, they are fully responsible for maintaining, repairing, or replacing it. The landlord has no obligation to service an appliance they didn’t supply, and tenants must ensure that any installation meets safety standards—particularly if it involves gas or electrical work.

Time-frames for Repairs

Responsibility is one thing, but timing is another. When an oven breaks, how quickly should the landlord fix it? That depends on how critical the oven is to day-to-day living and whether the tenant has any other way to cook meals.

While there’s no legal definition of “reasonable time,” guidance from housing charities and councils suggests that urgent issues like broken essential appliances should be addressed within 24–48 hours for acknowledgement, and resolved within 7–14 days, depending on circumstances. Unnecessary delays can lead to rent reductions, compensation, or enforcement action from local councils.

What Should Tenants Do If the Oven Breaks?

Tenants have a right to live in a safe, functional property—but they also have a responsibility to follow correct procedures when things go wrong. If your oven breaks down, taking the right steps can help ensure the issue is resolved quickly and fairly.

Start by reviewing your tenancy agreement and inventory list to confirm whether the oven was provided. Then, report the issue in writing to your landlord or agent, giving clear details. Don’t try to fix the appliance yourself, and make sure you document all communication and responses for future reference.

What Should Landlords Do If the Oven Breaks?

Landlords should act quickly when informed of a broken oven—not only because it affects the tenant’s quality of life, but also to stay within the boundaries of the law. Taking prompt, professional action also helps protect your reputation and avoid legal consequences.

Once notified, landlords should assess whether the issue is caused by fair wear and tear or tenant misuse. For genuine faults, a qualified technician should be called, and if the appliance is beyond repair, it should be replaced promptly. Keeping maintenance records and receipts can also be helpful for tax and compliance purposes.

Find out more about landlord responsibilities for repairs in our comprehensive guide.

Common Disputes and How to Avoid Them

Disagreements over repairs—especially when they involve cooking facilities—are a common source of tension in rented properties. These disputes often stem from unclear responsibilities, poor communication, or assumptions about what is and isn’t covered.

To avoid conflict, both parties should ensure that tenancy agreements and inventories are clear and up-to-date. Tenants should report issues early and in writing, and landlords should respond quickly and document every repair. Using a tenancy management platform or communication app can help streamline this process.

Who Pays for What: A Quick Summary

If you’re still unsure who’s responsible, here’s a simple reference guide to common oven-related scenarios. It’s not a legal document, but it reflects typical outcomes based on UK housing practices.

Final Thoughts

Ovens may not be the most glamorous topic in rental law, but they’re a vital part of daily living—and when they fail, the impact is immediate. In the majority of tenancies, if the oven was supplied by the landlord, the responsibility to repair or replace it lies with them, unless the damage was clearly caused by the tenant.

The key to avoiding disputes is clarity, communication, and documentation. Tenants should understand their rights and responsibilities, while landlords should be proactive in providing and maintaining safe, functional appliances.

For real-life stories about how landlords and letting agents handle repairs—including ovens—browse or contribute reviews on Marks Out Of Tenancy. Your voice helps hold landlords accountable and empowers other renters to make informed decisions.