Compensating tenants for furnace breakdown

[multiroger]

The furnace was on and off for a week and finally broke down 2 days ago. I am having it replaced today. I want to know by law do I require to compensate my tenants? They have been good tenants, paying on time, so even if not required by law, I want to give them some gift cards. Anyone has the similar exp can share how much did you compensate tenants?

 

[James Maggs]

I haven`t done this myself personally, but I`m sure a 50$ gift card for groceries or something would be appropriate. Anything less seems unsubstantial, even though it doesn`t sound like there was a major impact to the tenants.

I`m no lawyer, but I cannot see how you would be legally obligated to provide them anything unless you knew about the furnace issues for a long time and did nothing about it. If you have been scheduling regular yearly maintenance on the furnace, and only just found out about the issue (which you resolved within 2 days), it sounds like you`ve fulfilled your landlord accountabilities.

If you`re really all that concerned I would give your provincial landlord/tenant board a call to verify.

 

[invst4profit]

The Ontario LTB will not be of any assistance.
They do not have a policy in the RTA they could call on to give specific advice on this matter.
Although if a tenant files a complaint sometimes they allow rent rebates. In this case since you acted quickly it is unlikely they would award a rebate.

 

[Roo]

QUOTE (multiroger @ Jan 8 2010, 08:12 AM) The furnace was on and off for a week and finally broke down 2 days ago. I am having it replaced today. I want to know by law do I require to compensate my tenants? They have been good tenants, paying on time, so even if not required by law, I want to give them some gift cards. Anyone has the similar exp can share how much did you compensate tenants?

I have always taken the high road on these things. A gift basket or dinner voucher goes a long way.There is no requirement in BC to do this.