What Furniture and Appliances Should a Landlord Provide?

When renting an apartment, tenants often wonder what essentials the landlord is responsible for providing. While this can vary depending on the lease agreement, local laws, and the type of rental (furnished or unfurnished), there are general expectations and legal requirements that apply in most cases.

Standard Requirements

Landlords are typically obligated to ensure that the apartment meets basic habitability standards, which include:

1. Essential Appliances:
   • Stove/Oven: Most leases require landlords to provide a working stove and oven.
   • Refrigerator: Many rentals include a refrigerator, but some may not—this should be clarified in the lease.
   • Heating and Cooling Systems: Adequate heating is legally required in most areas, while air conditioning may not be unless specified.
2. Basic Fixtures:
   • Functional plumbing, lighting, and electrical systems are mandatory.
   • Kitchen and bathroom fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and showers, must be in working order.
3. Safety Features:
   • Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and secure locks are standard requirements to ensure tenant safety.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished Rentals

• Furnished Rentals:
  Landlords providing a furnished unit typically include essential furniture like beds, sofas, dining tables, chairs, and sometimes smaller appliances like microwaves or TVs.
• Unfurnished Rentals:
  For unfurnished apartments, tenants should not expect any furniture beyond built-in elements like cabinets or closets.

Local Laws and Lease Agreements

The specific responsibilities of a landlord can vary:

• Legal Standards: Some states or cities require landlords to provide certain appliances or fixtures, such as refrigerators or blinds.
• Lease Clauses: The lease should clearly state what the landlord is providing. If it’s not listed, it’s best to confirm in writing before signing.

What Landlords Are Typically Not Required to Provide

• Luxury Appliances: Items like dishwashers, washing machines, or dryers are not always standard and may depend on the rental market or the building’s amenities.
• Decorative Items: Landlords are not obligated to provide curtains, rugs, or decorative lighting unless specified.

Conclusion

Before moving in, review your lease agreement and ask for a walkthrough to confirm what furniture and appliances will be included. Clarifying these details upfront will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure your new apartment meets your expectations. Remember, landlords are responsible for providing a safe, habitable space—but anything beyond the basics should be confirmed in writing.