Ventless Dryer in Unit OK?

[Amanda Palmer]

Hi there. This is regarding a unit inside a 4-plex in Pleasant Ridge/Cincinnati. We inherited a tenant on the first floor who has her own washer and dryer (there is a coin-op in the basement). The issues are a) we did not know she had the washer and dryer until we had to do some unrelated plumbing repairs and b) the dryer does not have a vent hose with proper ventilation, and c) she's using a regular 20-amp outlet (not grounded) for the dryer in one of the bedrooms. The vent is currently covered by a hosiery sock. I've learned this is a common practice in buildings that cannot allow for today's vent-hose setup. I am concerned that this could be a safety hazard as far as the dryer is concerned and a mold/moisture problem for the washer. The washer hooked up to the kitchen sink when it runs and then they push it back to the wall when it's not in use. We did ask our insurance company about it, and they told us it could void the coverage if it started a fire. That would be enough for most property owners right there! But I am trying to be flexible since she claims to have been using it for two years before we bought the place in December 2016.

How would you approach this? Is this a common thing? I could have her sign an addendum to the lease or ask her to stop using them. Any other ideas or insights from experience are appreciated.

[Ryan Murdock]

Every component of this spells disaster. Have her get rid of the machines immediately. Cite fire and insurance issues if you have to but get them out of there.