Tenants Threatening 'Repair and Deduct' for a Finicky Stove

[Kevin Huang]

I have some tenants who are complaining to me about a 'broken' stove where 1 out of the 4 range tops wouldn't ignite. I had someone come out and take a look at it today, and before leaving he called me down and I was able to light all 4 of the range tops prior to him leaving.

I just received a text from the tenants stating that they still can't get the top to light, to which I responded that it might just be finicky and that they might need to try it a few times. I also let them know that I was able to get it to light myself. Their response was that the stove was not 'fully fixed' and then threatened to buy a new stove to replace it and deduct the costs out of their next months rent if it is not up to their standards within the next 14 days, which a lawyer told them they would be able to do.

I was pretty baffled by the unreasonableness and ingratitude of their response, but it seems too late to try and change any of that, and at this point what I want to do is just wait out the 14 days and see what happens. I've done some research online as to what I'm able to do and as far as I can tell, I don't believe I'm obligated to do anything more. That said, I'm no expert and I have basically no experience with things like this, so wanted to pick your brains over here for your general thoughts on the situation as well as any advice that you have to offer.

Thanks in advance - any help is sincerely appreciated!