We are moving into a new build apartment with washer/dryer hookups (while we continue to look for the right place to buy). The landlord says we need to use a licensed plumber to connect a washer and dryer, which seems overkill to me. Any thoughts on what this will cost?

I need to decide if I should challenge them or not.

Many thanks!


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  1. I just bought a set from Sears. Washer install comes free with delivery, and I paid $180 for electric dryer installation (we’re stacking them and there is some extended venting to run, plus I just want it done).

  2. If you are buying a new set, the store where you buy it will have installers. That said the guys from Sears who installed our washer and dryer were pretty hopeless.

  3. Thanks everyone.

    The landlord will supply a washer/dryer for $50/month, or we can supply ourselves with his approval. I would prefer to buy a set for that much, but not if I have to pay $180-$200 to have them connected. But he slipped in the licensed plumber bit — I’m not sure if that’s just being overly cautious on his part or to influence us to rent them from him.

    He seems to be trying to protect himself as much as possible — but has agreed to drop some other clauses so is perhaps being reasonable about it.

    I have challenged re: the washer/dryer, and I think we are agreeing that I can make the connections and he will have his maintenance folks or super check to make sure it looks OK. Waiting for his confirmation.

    I’m not sure if it’s gas or electric for the dryer. I might be a bit more nervous making a gas connection…

  4. That’s hilarious, since you could do it yourself. If there is gas, though, you want to be sure it’s done correctly and they use gas pipe dope.

    A licensed plumber won’t cost very much. They’ll charge you their minimum — $180 or $200 or whatever their minimum is.

    Does the building have a super? Usually they do things like this, and you tip them $40.

  5. Check with P.C. Richards. They have low prices on installations. I agree that installation is not rocket science but some people don’t like to do it and/or don’t want to be responsible if something leaks.

  6. If the hookups are there you can connect all but the gas yourself. Connecting the gas does not require a licensed plumber. It is overkill.
    Email me at lcapland at gee mail dot com for the best prices on washers and dryers. Referrals available should you need them.

    Levi

  7. Sounds like an over-controlling landlord to me (and I am one). I’d comply just to keep the peace (you can proabably get a plumber to do it for less than $100), but, frankly, I’d be wary about trouble down the road with every minor issue.