As a general rule, a landlord has an obligation to repair appliances that are provided as part of the tenancy. When the landlord is not required to provide those appliances, as is the case with such appliances as a microwave oven, dishwasher, washer or dryer, swimming pool, and (at least under state law) a refrigerator, they are deemed amenities and landlord may reserve in the lease the right not to repair the items or that any repairs are the responsibility of the tenant.

The failure to repair an amenity is not a violation of the warranty of habitability, but if the landlord remains responsible for the repair it may nonetheless be possible for the tenant to recover repair costs from the landlord.

The tenant needs to start by reviewing the terms of his or her lease.