Compensating tenant for broken refrigerator

[Manas M.]

Hi BP Folks,

One of my unit is rented out to a tenant with a refrigerator. Recently, the refrigerator broke down and we got it fixed in about 10 days (the earliest we could get a technician to the house). Now, the tenant is asking for almost $1500 in compensation for the loss of food and groceries and are holding up the rent for this month. Note that this amount is even higher than the monthly rent! Also, not to mention that's its a regular size appliance which can't possibly hold this much of food.

I know I am obligated to compensate for their loss but as a goodwill, I still wanted to do something about it (in addition to getting the appliance repaired). However, this unreasonable ask has completely changed my mindset about the whole topic. 

Wondering what other experience folks have to say about this. I do realize that she may be just looking for reasons to get out of the lease early (which might be a better option over a disgruntled tenant).

[Nathan Gesner]

Originally posted by @Manas M.:

I know I am obligated to compensate for their loss...

Wrong.

Your legal and moral obligation is to maintain the home in working order. You are not required to compensate the tenant for their lost filet mignon, which is more likely pizza bites and Coors Lite. You are not an insurance company and there's no obligation to compensate him for anything. You didn't break the fridge through neglect or abuse, and you can't control availability of technicians.

Tell him to get renters insurance to protect himself from losses like this in the future. Then shut the conversation down.