Appliances for Rental Investment Properties: What Landlords Need to Know
Supplying the right appliances in a rental property is one of the most practical ways to attract quality tenants, reduce vacancy periods and protect your investment. But choosing the wrong appliances — ones that break down frequently or cost too much to repair — creates ongoing headaches and unexpected expenses. Here’s a landlord’s guide to making smart appliance choices for investment properties in Sydney.
Do You Need to Supply Appliances?
In New South Wales, landlords are not legally required to supply white goods (washing machines, dryers, dishwashers) unless they were included in the original listing. However, properties advertised with appliances command higher rents and attract tenants faster. A fully equipped kitchen with oven, rangehood and dishwasher is now considered standard for most medium-to-high rental properties.
What Appliances Should Landlords Supply?
Essentials (Always Supply)
- Oven and cooktop (or freestanding cooker)
- Rangehood
- Refrigerator (for furnished properties)
Strongly Recommended
- Dishwasher (significantly increases rental appeal)
- Washing machine (especially for apartments without laundry facilities)
Optional
- Dryer (not essential if outdoor line is available)
- Microwave (small cost, big tenant appeal)
Key Principles for Landlords Buying Appliances
Prioritise Reliability Over Features
Tenants don’t need 47 wash programs or a touchscreen fridge display. They need appliances that work reliably without calling you every few months for repairs. Choose mid-range models from reputable brands (Westinghouse, Samsung, LG, Bosch) over entry-level no-name units or top-of-the-line luxury models.
Choose Stainless Steel or White — Nothing Trendy
Avoid appliances in unusual colours or finishes that may look dated quickly. White or stainless steel always works and doesn’t affect tenants’ furniture choices.
Keep Records of All Appliances
Document every appliance supplied — brand, model number, serial number, purchase date and warranty expiry. Keep receipts. This simplifies insurance claims, warranty services and cost calculations at tax time.
Tax Deductibility
Appliances in rental properties are generally tax-deductible in Australia, either immediately if under $300 or via depreciation schedules for higher-value items. Consult your accountant and speak to a quantity surveyor about a depreciation schedule for new properties.
Best Appliances for Rental Properties
Washing Machine
Westinghouse 8kg front-loader or Samsung 9kg top-loader. Avoid cheap off-brand machines — repair costs will exceed savings quickly.
Refrigerator
Hisense 400–440L bottom mount. Excellent capacity for the price, 2-year warranty, easy to service.
Oven and Cooktop
Westinghouse or Chef 60cm freestanding cooker OR 60cm built-in oven + gas/electric cooktop. Mid-range, serviceable, nothing fancy.
Dishwasher
Bosch 60cm freestanding — highly reliable, quiet, well-known for longevity. Worth the slight premium for reduced maintenance calls.
Where to Buy
Oceania Appliances specialises in rental property appliance packages. We can build you a complete set for a competitive total price with single-visit delivery and installation positioning. Great for landlords fitting out one property or an entire portfolio.
Visit our Wetherill Park showroom or call us: (02) 9999 9999 | support@oceaniaappliances.com.au