A laundry facility for apartments is a shared space within an apartment building that provides access to washers and dryers for residents. These facilities offer convenience to tenants who do not have in-unit laundry, allowing them to clean their clothes without leaving the property. They can be located in common areas like basements, laundry rooms or designated spaces on each floor. Some facilities may be coin-operated or use a card system for payment, while others may be included in rent. Having an on-site laundry facility adds value to the building and enhances tenant satisfaction.

In-unit laundry provides the convenience of having a washer and dryer directly inside an apartment. In-building laundry, on the other hand, is a shared facility within the apartment complex, often located in a common area such as a basement or a designated laundry room. It typically serves multiple units, requiring residents to leave their apartments to access the machines. In-building laundry is a cost-effective and space-saving option for apartment owners and managers. The choice between in-unit and in-building laundry often comes down to space, cost, and personal convenience preferences.

Yes, multi-family vended laundry can increase property values by providing a desirable and convenient amenity that attracts renters. These facilities offer property owners the potential to generate additional income through pay-per-use systems, improving the building’s overall revenue stream. Vended laundry also enhances tenant satisfaction, as it eliminates the need for off-site laundry services and can be a key factor in rental decisions. Furthermore, well-maintained laundry facilities contribute to the building’s appeal and marketability, often allowing property managers to command higher rental rates. The added convenience and functionality of on-site laundry can make the property more competitive in the housing market.

The size of an apartment laundry room depends on the number of units it serves, but a general recommendation is 4 to 6 square feet per machine, including both washers and dryers. For a small- to mid-sized building, a laundry room typically ranges from 100 to 400 square feet, ensuring enough space for equipment, folding areas and accessibility. You’ll also need to ensure to allow for utilities (e.g. water connections, drainage and electric for washers, and electric/venting /potentially gas for dryers.

The size of an apartment laundry room depends on the number of units it serves and the equipment needed. For a small- to mid-sized building, the room should generally be at least 100 to 400 square feet to comfortably accommodate multiple machines and ensure ample space for residents to move around. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 4 to 6 square feet per machine, including washers and dryers, which ensures enough room for proper spacing and ventilation. Additional space may be needed for folding tables, seating and laundry carts to enhance convenience for users. Adequate room for maintenance and accessibility, such as complying with ADA guidelines, should also be considered.

A communal laundry is a shared space within a residential complex where multiple tenants can access washing machines and dryers. This facility is typically located in a common area such as a basement, laundry room or dedicated floor within the building. Residents share the equipment, often paying per use through coin-operated or card systems. Communal laundry facilities provide a convenient solution for those without in-unit laundry, allowing tenants to wash clothes on-site without needing to travel to an off-site laundromat.

The cost of setting up multi-unit shared laundry facilities can range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the size of the facility and the number of machines needed. We recommend 1 set of machines for every 8-10 units. This includes the purchase or lease of washers and dryers, as well as installation costs for plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation. Additional expenses may come from ongoing maintenance, utility usage and any agreements with laundry service providers if the machines are leased. Buildings often implement pay-per-use systems, such as coin-operated or card-based machines, which can generate revenue and help offset some of the costs. The overall investment can enhance tenant satisfaction, attract new renters and add value to the property. Therefore, while the initial cost may be significant, the long-term benefits often outweigh the expenses.

The cost of setting up a laundry room can vary widely based on the size of the space, number of machines, and type of equipment. A basic setup for a small laundry room typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, which includes the purchase or lease of washers and dryers, along with necessary plumbing, electrical work and ventilation. Larger setups with multiple machines or high-efficiency models may cost upwards of $50,000. Additional costs may include installing folding tables, seating, and storage areas, as well as covering ongoing maintenance and utility expenses. While the upfront cost can be significant, a well-planned laundry room can provide convenience for tenants and potential revenue for property owners.

One option for cost/risk reduction is to consider a revenue share program, offered by H-M Company, which calls for the equipment to be installed at no cost to the owner of the building and the revenue is split between H-M and the building owner. This is attractive to many building operators, and is a simple program to create. Contact H-M Company to learn more.