A tenant received an email from a landlord asking him to remove small appliances from their unit after a last-minute inspection. The landlord stated that small appliances are being left plugged in while not in use, and this is for safety and to conserve energy. The tenant countered that utilities are paid separately and not included in rent, and that without this provision, the request for such a change could not be enforced. The internet debate divided, with some arguing that some people actually unplug appliances, particularly those with a heating element, and others suggesting that the cost breakdowns were lower. The larger issue is how far a landlord's authority can go in a rented space.