Who is responsible for water damage to carpets caused by a leaking washing machine in rented accommodation?
If the washing machine was clearly at fault, then it’s the Landlords responsibility their insurance will cover it. However if the leak was caused by you using the machine incorrectly then it’s your responsibility but assuming you have insurance it would be covered. If the problem was as a result of neglecting basic washing machine care (e.g. you didn’t clean a filter, it blocked and caused the leak) as opposed to servicing and/or maintenance which the landlord would be responsible for then it’s also your responsibility but it’s unlikely to be covered by the your insurance policy. Most domestic contents insurance which you should have for your own belongings would cover any consequential damage.
If you rented furnished and the washing machine was already installed, then the landlord or agency is responsible. However you should report any problems as they happen, so they can be fixed, instead of leaving them to get worse, if he was unaware of the problem because you failed to inform him, then you are being negligent and should partly be to blame. It is a tenants responsibility to look after the place, while residing there. He should fix or replace the washing machine at his expense, as you rented it with one installed, that you presumed worked. He should fix any damage, that results from its malfunction too, especially if it is very unsightly, or different from when you initially started the lease. Best bet if you haven’t already, report the faulty washing machine, and explain it is damaging the carpets. If you are still there he should fix or replace the machine or make good the damage. If you have left already, explain the machine leaked, if the damage looks really bad, befor
