Portable Washers and Dryers Allowed?

Question

All - Do you allow tenants to bring in portable washers or portable dryers for small apartments/ units that don't have hookups? If so, do you have specific requirements for what can be purchased and how to install and use them? Would there be special considerations for up and down duplexes?

Thank you.

Richard F. · Answer

You run the risk of overloading electrical circuits, and of overrunning the capacity of your waste lines. And, of course, any overflow or leak caused by the washer WILL run downhill...into the unit below, causing extensive damage to both units.

Does the building NOT have a laundry facility? It is far better to set one up in a basement or first floor common/closet area, using coin/card operated equipment. Vend companies will maintain them, often will pay to place them on a 10 year contract, and you still get 50% of the income from them after setting pricing based on your anticipated tenant loads.

Jim Johnson · Answer

I'd be cautious about allowing them, particularly in an upstairs unit. If I did allow a portable washer or dryer, I wouldn't leave the equipment and setup completely up to the tenant.

I'd want some basic requirements in place:

• Approved type/model of machine
• Proper water supply and drainage connection
• No permanent plumbing or electrical modifications without approval
• Leak protection for washers
• Proper venting if the dryer requires it
• Installation inspected or approved before use

The up/down duplex would concern me more than a ground-floor unit. A loose hose or overflowing washer upstairs isn't just a maintenance call—it can damage the unit below and affect another tenant. I'd want to know exactly how it's being installed before giving the okay.

Kadia Lawrence · Answer

Thanks!! You confirmed my concerns.  I got feedback from someone to disregard concerns as tenants will do what they want anyway (subject to inspections or hiding things).   Based on research, I am gathering I need to ensure they voltage matches the apartment, they should have leak pans and have machines with auto-shut offs, etc.  I had looked into coin operated, but the basement is rough and would need few thousands in investments to pull it off.  Seems easier to have them bring their own but am doing due diligence on risks and potential requirements including giving an approved list of models??

Marc Winter · Answer

@Kadia Lawrence,

@Richard F. gave good insight.  My question is: Who is paying for water?

If I were managing, I'd discuss with the owner; if I owned it, I'd just say "No".

Portable Washers and Dryers Allowed?

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