Hi there! I tried searching for information about this, but I can't find anything that specifically applies. A few weeks ago, I was cooking on a very hot day. Between the heat in the air and the heat on the range, the bottom of the plastic frame the microwave door melted/deformed, but I didn't notice until the next day, so I couldn't try to push it back. Now the inner glass/metal door is fine, but it doesn't close perfectly, so the microwave thinks it's still open and will not operate.
I showed it to our super-type-guy, who reported it to the management company. The management company rep, without seeing it, said "That's impossible" and implied that it must be my fault and that she would have to send the manager over to look--though how I could cause such a thing deliberately or negligently, I have no idea. She also mentioned something about charging us when the unit was inspected (which would leave us without a microwave until we move out, which we have no plans to do currently). Can they really charge us for a microwave that melted due to environmental factors? It seems to me that, if anything, this would be more like the rules for an air conditioner, where they have to replace it but can increase our rent by 1/40th of the cost of the replacement. Or should I try to buy a replacement door part (~$200) to avoid getting charged for the full cost of the microwave?
Additional background, if it matters: the apartment is rent-stabilized. We have been here six years and have always paid rent on time. There have only been minimal maintenance issues in the past, which were clearly not our fault and were repaired without complaint.
Thanks!