Can Your Landlord Evict You For Having A Washing Machine?

Having a washer and drier in your rental unit can be a real game changer. When you are busy or have a large family, taking your clothes to the laundromat can feel like a full-time job. It may be very shocking and frustrating when your landlord asks you to remove your washer and drier or face eviction. In addition to the shock, you may wonder if your landlord could evict you for having a washing machine in the first place.

There are several circumstances in which a landlord can evict you for having a washing machine. If your lease states there can be no washing machines or large appliances then you face eviction if you do not remove it. If your washing machine violates any municipal or building codes you can also face eviction if the washing machine is not taken out.

Before you can determine if you need to remove your washer or face eviction, you should first understand the landlord’s perspective.

Sometimes your landlord does not need to put anything in the lease at all. Some municipal codes have specific rules about drainage. Be sure to research the municipal codes where you live to see if your machine is in violation of any codes.

These codes not only vary from state to state but also from one county to another. Be sure to research the rules in your county specifically. If you live in a large building then you should review their house rules as well.

Tip: The municipal code often refers to the size of the drainage pipe and opening. Be sure your drainage pipe is of the proper size.

If your landlord believes you are violating the terms of the lease he may serve you with a “10 Day Notice To Comply With The Terms Of The Rental Agreement Or Vacate” notice. This notice will detail what the landlord believes you are in violation of. In this case he would state your washing machine goes against the terms of your lease.

The notice will serve as the start of a clock that will reach 10 days. If you still have not removed the washing machine after the tenth day your landlord may decide to begin the official eviction process. If you have any questions about the notice or do not believe you are in violation you should use the ten days to resolve the dispute. Be sure to document all correspondences to ensure your landlord does not unlawfully end your lease early.

If your lease states you cannot have a washing machine and your landlord asks you to remove it then you should comply. It will be very difficult for you to prove your case if it is clearly stated in the lease.

If the removal will take some time then communicate that with your landlord. Once the eviction process officially begins it can move quickly. You may think getting rid of your washing machine is inconvenient. If you get evicted and kicked out of your apartment it will be far more inconvenient.

If you are worried that your landlord may evict you for your washing machine you should also consider the larger consequences. There may be even bigger consequences than eviction in store for you.If you knowingly violate your lease by having a washing machine you can even be sued.

Although not all washing machines malfunction, it does happen. Some washing machines are better than others, but a leak can happen in even the best machine. A major washing machine malfunction can result in significant flooding. This flooding can permanently damage the rental unit and cost thousands to repair.

If you live in a building with lots of neighbors then their property can get damaged as well. Depending on the level of your negligence, you can potentially be held accountable for some or even all of the damages that resulted from the washing machine. This is important to consider when you install the machine for “convenience.”

Related Questions

Do Portable Washing Machines Really Work?

Portable washing machines can be a highly effective alternative for those who have a limited amount of space in their home. A portable machine is also often the only option for those who do not have a permanent hot and cold water hookup.

A portable washing machine is not a substitute for a high-functioning washer and drier. Still, there are many trusted products on the market.

Can I install A Hot Tub In My Back Yard If I Rent My House?

Whenever you install a large appliance it is a good idea to ask the landlord first. There are often many laws and safety guidelines when it comes to hot tubs. Be sure to communicate with the landlord.

If the landlord gives your the go ahead, be sure you are following all safety guidelines.

Does My Landlord Have To Fix My Washer If It  Breaks?

If your washer breaks down you should check your lease before taking any further steps. In many states landlords are not obligated to provide all appliances in the rental unit.  This means that even though your apartment has a washer does not mean it is included in the rental price.

Some landlords have clauses stating that any appliances are “as is” and any repairs must be made at the tenants expense. If you do not see any such clause then you should next contact your landlord before hiring someone to fix it or buying a new washer.

At the end of the day it is important to know that when you bring a washing machine into your rental unit you landlord can ask you to remove it. There is a chance that the landlord has not included anything in the lease against washing machines. If your washing machine does not violate municipal codes or the lease then your landlord should not be able to evict you.

Remember that your landlord does have the ability to make adjustments to the lease when the lease ends. If you plan on staying at the property for a long time you should try and come to an agreement with the landlord.

If your landlord is starting the eviction process and you believe you are in the right, contact the fair housing department. You can also seek legal council.