They could and probably would deny claims over this.As other have mentioned, things like gaskets and valves are designed to be used and not using them can cause them to crack or malfunction.

Hey All, My wife and I are planning to rent out our current condo in the next few months and I am in need of a solid handyman in the area that I can call on if anything breaks or malfunctions while we are away.

EXAMPLE: appliances - our lease states they are not warranted by owner and if they malfunction or stop working it's up to tenant to address.

Hi there,I purchased a SFH in Gilbert last Nov for long tern rentals and manage it from out of state. it's build in 2008. on 7/22, the tenant told me the bracket came loose and the door won't close, the had one man came to check and said: the motor failed and one of the screws apparently on the top of the door malfunctioned and the motor just kept pulling the door instead of stopping.

Current 20 yr old AC unit is about to go out and decided to replace both AC and gas furnace units (also 20 years old).Estimate #1: recommended by a friend (RE agent, investor)$7,377: 1 yr full labor install warranty, 20 yr heat exchanger, 10 yr parts, 2 yr unit replacementGoodman GSX13 condenser 13 SEER, 3 tonGoodman GMES gas furnace 80% , 80,000BTUGoodman CAPF evaporator coilEstimate #2: google search (almost 5 star reviews, already helped with emergency capacitor replacement for the old unit 2 weeks ago on day of malfunction)$7,140: 3 yr full labor, 10 yr parts w/registrationHeil 14 SEER condenser, 3 tonHeil gas furnace 80%, 70,000BTUHeil evaporator coilWhich would you choose? 

If so perhaps there's a malfunction.

I am sorry for all the typos I am working off a wireless keyboard that is malfunctioning. 

You don't want to be on the hook for an injury taking place due to a malfunction.

Here is an example from ours:APPLIANCES.Appliances included in the rental of the premises, as noted in the rental agreement, such as a refrigerator, range, dishwasher, clothes washer or clothes dryer, belong to Landlord.If Tenant wishes to use these appliances, Tenant agrees to use them properly in accordance with manufacturer instructions and assumes all responsibility for their care and cleaning.In the event there is a malfunction of an appliance or an appliance is in need of repair, Tenant agrees to notify Landlord in a timely manner and in writing.If Tenant wishes to use their own appliances, Tenant agrees to contact Landlord in advance to obtain prior written approval and instructions, as the removal and installation of appliances must be done with care to prevent damage to the appliance and/or building.We always place water alarms near washing machines, hot water heaters, and under the kitchen sink.

For #4 - You need to be upfront with tenants and let them know that you are new to the house and you would appreciate any reports of broken/malfunctioning equipment, so you can get it in working order for them.