Washers and dryers in New York City are status symbols. Only about 20% of apartments have the hookups necessary to install washer and dryer units, and those that have them should consider themselves lucky. But why do so few buildings allow residents to install washers and dryers? The waste piping systems in many older buildings can be too small or too packed with sediment. The result is that soap and water will back up and affect your neighbors. This presents a high risk that your building likely doesn’t want to take. Yes, there is some logic to it; it’s not just to punish you or keep you in shape!
Can I Put a Washer and Dryer in My Apartment?
Your lease will likely specify whether you can install a washer/dryer. The first clue is whether you have the necessary hookups for them. If you have the hookups, congratulations! You’ll have the space to add a washer and dryer. Communicate with your landlord to determine if they’ll pay for the cost of the appliance, or if you’ll need to cover it yourself.
If you do not plan to live in the apartment for several years, it is not worth it to pay for the cost of a washer and dryer. Save your money, and consider washing your clothes across the street for the short term.
Can You Have a Washer and Dryer Without Hookups?
Without the existing hookups, most renters are out of luck when it comes to getting a washer and dryer in the apartment. They can still try to ask their landlords, but the property owner is likely to deny any request. If they have not yet installed the appliance, they’re likely not motivated to add it.
However, renters can take an illegal route. If you don’t care what your landlord thinks or believe you can get away with it, there are some additional options available to you.
Small Washer and Dryer for an Apartment
With modern advancements, a small washer and dryer for apartment units in NYC is very feasible these days. You can either hand wash your clothes and then dry them in a ventless or vented dryer, you can purchase a portable apartment washing machine and then air dry your clothes, or buy both for your apartment in New York City.
Portable apartment washing machines are handy in that you don’t need a hookup to utilize them. Simply fill the machine with water and then turn the machine on. Once you’re done, you can drain the water back into your bathtub through a hose. Portable washing machines have the added benefit of being more affordable and portable than your typical washing machine, which requires hookups.
Dryers are a bit more bulky and come with two options: vented or ventless. For most in the city, a ventless dryer will be the better option. However, even the most modern dryers can be bulky and pricey, so for most folks, a drying rack might be the easier method for drying your clothes following a wash.
Renting a Unit with a Washer and Dryer
<p><p>If you don’t want to purchase your own portable apartment washing machine and ventless dryer, then consider renting apartments with in-unit laundry. It may be an added cost, but to some, that added cost of an apartment washer and dryer is more than worth it.
Consequences of Installing an Apartment Washing Machine
Beware: you will be breaking an important clause in your lease, and you could be evicted. Additionally, if a flood or fire occurs due to your machine or dryer, you will be responsible for the resulting damages. Going rogue is not suggested in almost any circumstance and it could cost you a fortune.
“The core problem with washer-dryer units is that the flow of water often overwhelms the limiting plumbing capacity of older buildings,” says Dean M. Roberts, a real estate attorney with Norris McLaughlin & Marcus in Manhattan. These overflows can lead to the discovery of your machine, especially if it leaks into the apartment below you. Some good news: “ You probably won’t be evicted unless you refuse to give up the machine, says Goidel.
“The fact that several other tenants may have a washer/dryer can’t in and of itself justify acquiring similar equipment,” he says. “Perhaps the landlord is unaware or perhaps the tenants are rent-regulated and their leases allow it.”
At the end of the day, there are easier ways to get your laundry done than by risking thousands of dollars and doing your laundry in the dark of night. If you don’t have the hookups, look into some pickup and delivery services. Otherwise, it’s time to haul those heavy bags down to the laundromat and bring something to read.
Editor’s Note: We updated this article to enhance readability.
