Does anyone know what the laws are?

My friend just called me, saying the refrigerator seems to have broke down. She put water in the ice tray last night. Made sure the door was shut, and this morning the whole contents of her freezer is thawed! I told her to call the landlord (management group she rents from immediately. But she is wondering if they are responsible for replacing her food that is spoiled. Does anyone know the law regarding this? Is she due any compensation, because of their appliance breaking down? Sher has yearly inspections and has been told that the fridge is as old as her apartment. (The place was built in the 1970's.) She lives in the state of Washington. (That is right above Oregon.) Thanks for any help directing me in the right direction, so I can help her.