Washer and Dryer behind Egress door??

Question

Hi BP community,

We are working on a multifamily we just purchased and trying to plan where to install laundry machines. Currently the 3 unit does NOT have any laundry hookups. Our thought was to place them in a common back entry way, behind the door. So basically, when the door opens, it would be able to open and make a 90 degree angle, and then it would hit the laundry machines. Would this be a fire hazard? The door and exit is still functional, it's just that instead of swinging open the 180 degrees, it would only be open 90 degrees because we'd place the laundry machines behind the door.

You can see in the diagram the entry door - again, this is the BACK entry, not the main entry. I'd appreciate any thoughts!

Thank you!

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I wouldn't add a washer/dryer. It's likely to be abused and a source of conflict between your three renters. People will use it during quiet hours, start a load of laundry and forget it, steal someone's laundry detergent, leave the dryer filter clogged, etc. It's an extra expense to install and an extra opportunity for future problems with very little benefit to you.

Theresa Harris · Answer

I can't see a problem.  It is no different than if you had a wall behind the door and it could only open 90 degrees.  Just make sure you have the required clearance and the door opens on to the side of the machines-not the front.

Jonathan Bombaci · Answer

@Nathan G. Thanks for the input. We'll definitely consider not putting it in at all. Thanks.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

It hasn't been enough of an issue that I tear my hair out, but there have been a few problems:

• Tenants washing laundry late at night while others are trying to sleep;
• Someone starts laundry and forgets to finish, leaving wet stuff in the washer or dry stuff in the dryer;
• Someone stole another person's detergent, softener, or even some of their clothing;
• Tenants don't clean the machines or the laundry room after use;

Those are just a few of the most common issues. It's not worth the small amount of income it produces.

Melinda Ching · Answer

Thanks for the replies @Theresa Harris and @Nathan G.! In the area that we are located, it seems to be a big disadvantage to not have in-house washers and dryers. The laundry mat isn't a convenient walk. The third unit will have it's on separate unit so only the first and second unit would be using them. Nathan, have you experienced a lot of issues with tenants getting upset over laundry?

Washer and Dryer behind Egress door??

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