Is a landlord liable for spoiled food if refrigerator fails?

[Sam Leon]

This is hypothetical question posted to me by an applicant.

The discussion was about renters insurance, and the applicant asked if the refrigerator fails - either because there is a power outage or if the refrigerator stopped working - and food got spoiled, who pays for the damages?

I don't think renter's insurance would cover it.  I believe renters insurance covers loss from certain peril such as theft, storm, fire etc...a broken refrigerator is probably not cover although I could be wrong...on the other hand, if it's a hurricane that caused the power outage, may be?  But I would assume if your deductible is $250 and you lose $200 of food, why bother?  Of course, they may have a dozen of expensive caviar or vintage wines that would go bad quickly.

Now if the fridge is broken, I am thinking being in South Florida, if it happens on a Wednesday evening, I may not be able to call in an appliance man until Thursday.  As with many appliances nowaday, the repair may actually be more than a new one.  Ordering a new one and having it delivered may be Friday or Saturday, by that time 3 days have gone by and everything is spoiled.  Would you pay for the damages if it's caused by your failed appliances?  Or do you have something in your lease to cover this?

I don't know what to make about this question.  Is this applicant just curious or is this an indication of a high maintenance tenant?