Combo washer/dryer leaking on 2nd floor of a 150 year old duplex

[Christopher Kolasa]

Old 150 year old duplex in Connecticut, bought a LG washer/dryer combo unit for the 2nd floor bathroom, I know, sounds like a bad idea. Had water hookups but no exhaust so wanted to include this washer/dryer for the rental appeal when I remodeled the place. I’m getting about $1,300 for the unit and spell out in the lease I am not liable for the functionality of the unit however want to do right by my tenants.. I know the washer/dryer is desirable and likely swayed the young family to rent here last year. Unit fits barely into the space and has broken several times already (washer dryer mechanic had only poor things to say of LG and Samsung washers). This is the second time it’s leaked water and this time it rained all over the first floor in the newly remodeled bathroom, bedroom, and living spaces, going to have to file an insurance claim. Both units are 2bed-1 bath.

Water posing a danger in the second floor... what should I do?

1. Remove unit and decrease rent? How much would you value the decrease? I could offer basement washer/dryer (1st floor tenant wouldn’t mind till he leaves, hatchway entrance, may be an increased liability however.

2. Install a standalone washer, may require some widening of the closet. $600. (Installing stackable washer dryer would require installing an exhaust).

Thanks for your help.