Repairs, Services & Conditions

Your Options When an Appliance Breaks

Get the information, tools, and support you need to understand your rights as a New York City tenant.

As a rent stabilized or rent controlled tenant, how can I avoid paying a rent increase for a replacement appliance (like a refrigerator or stove)?

As a rent-stabilized or rent-controlled tenant, you can avoid paying a rent increase for a replacement appliance (and avoid misunderstandings later on) by making a proper written request to your landlord.


Inform your landlord in writing that your appliance is broken. Explain in your letter that if the appliance cannot be repaired, you request a replacement of an equivalent, used appliance that is in good working order. Write that you do not agree to pay a rent increase or any other fees. Your landlord is required by law to honor this request. If you make this request and your landlord is unable in a timely manner to find a used appliance that is equivalent, he/she must provide a new appliance, and may not pass on the costs to you.


Photocopy your letter and keep a copy for your records. Then, send the letter to your landlord certified-mail, return receipt requested (this is important!). Verbal agreements are useless if there is a dispute later on. You may need proof of your written request, as well as proof that you mailed it.

SAMPLE LETTER:


July 18, 2026


Dear landlord,


I am writing to summarize the discussion I had with [you, the management office, the super] on [put in date of verbal request].


My [refrigerator, stove, or other appliance] recently stopped working properly and needs to be replaced. Please provide me a used [appliance] that is clean and in good working order as soon as possible, and which is equivalent to the model that I currently have.


Please note that I do not consent to any rent increases, fees, or other charges for this.


Please contact me as soon as possible to arrange a time to remove the broken model and install the replacement.


Sincerely,


[Your name]