This is a polarizing topic among landlords and just like anything in life people are usually shaped by past experiences. Did you have a tenant cause damage to a home because of misuse of a washer/dryer? Then you are probably a hard no. Have you had good experiences with providing them to your tenant? You are more likely to be a yes. Here are some pointers on how to handle this hot button landlording topic…

Install Them on Either the First Floor or in the Basement

What is worst case with a washer/dryer? They leak. If you have it installed in the first floor or basement then all that is getting water is the basement which is not ideal, but it is better than having them installed in let’s say a second or third floor and now you have damage in multiple apartments impacting multiple tenants. Another benefit of having them located here is they are easier to install. Lugging appliances up multiple flights if stairs is no fun and stores will cost more to install the higher up they have to go.

Get a Top Loader

If you are like me and have a front loader washer/dryer in your primary residence you may think it is a good idea to get them in your rental property. Not so fast and here is why you should be getting top loaders: they are cheaper, tenants typically have more experience with this type of washer/dryer combo, and lastly they are cheaper to fix if needed.

Lease Language is Key

How you word the maintenance of a washer/dryer in your lease is something most landlords overlook. My suggestion is to have written in your lease that the washer/dryer was fully functional at the time of move in and any repairs or replacement the tenants deem necessary throughout their tenancy will be their responsibility. This takes added maintenance costs off your plate and gives you something to refer to in your lease should the tenant ask for maintenance when it comes to either.

Just Provide Hookups

Is it the norm in your market to provide just the washer/dryer hookups for your tenant and not necessarily provide the appliances themselves? If so, you may want to explore that option. Make sure to do your market research because if every other apartment similar to yours is providing the washer/dryer you are putting yourself at a disadvantage by not doing so.