Refrigerator Glass Shelf

**rhodeisland** · 08-21-2011, 06:15 PM

My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: RI

I am working out with tenant on a problem of a refridgerator shelf that broken when I cleaned it before moving out. It's 3 weeks and despite all my efford I still cannot locate that part with any seller. Worried that he might try to get as much money as he could from my security deposit.

Can someone tell me if it's a normal wear and tear or can he really deduct $$ and up to how much?

Thank you.

jk · 08-21-2011, 06:16 PM

no, it is not normal wear and tear. He can deduct whatever the shelf is worth.

**LawResearcherMissy** · 08-21-2011, 06:17 PM

A broken refrigerator shelf is not normal wear and tear.

Your landlord will be permitted to withhold the amount necessary to replace that part.

**rhodeisland** · 08-21-2011, 06:21 PM

thanks, what if they don't make that part anymore? the fridge itself worths about $150, up to how much could he deduct for a shelf?

jk · 08-21-2011, 06:30 PM

they would likely try to charge the entire value of the appliance as the loss of the shelf severely limits the functionality of the appliance. If you dispute it with the courts, you may be able to get it reduced some but how much would be up to the court.