Quick Summary Video (if you prefer), and then keep reading
If your apartment doesn’t come with washer / dryer connections and your lease doesn’t have a clause that covers it, then most likely you will not be able to install a washer or dryer in your apartment. Here are some other things to consider:
- Does the lease state that you are not allowed to make any improvements or changes without permission? In this instance, you are not able to add a washer/dryer.
- Does the lease indicate there is a washer/dryer hook-up in your unit and the option to install your own appliances? If so make sure the individual you hire to perform the installation is familiar with installing these appliances.
- If a washer/dryer hook up is available, you might also want to speak to the apartment management office to see if you can pay an additional sum per month to have a washer and dryer installed.
Why are Installing Washer / Dryer Connections Such a Big Deal?
You are probably wondering what the big deal is about adding a washer / dryer.
Adding a washer / dryer to an apartment is not as simple as buying the appliances. One must consider the plumbing (hot, cold water, and waste lines), venting, and electrical and/or gas connections to power the appliances.
This can end up being quite costly. In fact, all this plumbing work is easily 5X the cost of appliances themselves, which is why many landlords are unwilling to create such connections. Even when hook-ups are provided, the washer and dryer installation should be done by a trained professional.
Can You Lose Your Security Deposit?
If your lease explicitly states that you cannot install a washer / dryer and you still do, you could be liable for all damage caused, lose your security deposit, and even face eviction for breaching your contract.
It’s always best to stick to the terms of your lease agreement, especially if the apartment complex has alternative solutions like on-site laundry facilities which can be fairly convenient and cost-effective to use.
How to Go About Installing?
If allowed under your lease, check with your building on how they would like you to install. Most likely the landlord will want do this themselves.
The building will need to consider hot water, cold water, waste lines, venting, and electrical. There is a lot to consider. From a labor perspective, it is usually 2 to 5 days of work to get this resolved.
If you don’t have a washer/dryer in your unit, ask about where the nearest one in your building is and how many apartment units share those laundry facilities.
For example, at Fidelity Management, for those apartments that do not have a washer/dryer in them, there are common washer/dryers that are shared amongst only 3 other families. This is very different than a building that has 100 units and one large laundry facility. Good luck on your search.
