What should I do about problems with the apartment's office?

Question

So the community washer for my apartment building has been broken for months. They keep saying someone keeps putting oil in the washer and I don't know what to do because nothing is getting done about it. I've called the office several times about the issue, and the last time I got hung up on mid sentence. I'm forced to go to the building next to us to do my laundry and it's a hassle because there is three floors and the washer and dryer is on the top floor. Plus all three apartment building are using that washer and dryer because another building is expieriencing the same problem. ANY HELP??

Answer 1

Well, if a tenant is putting oil in the washer and causing it to break down, there is not much that management can do. Generally, a landlord is not obligated to repair damages caused by a tenant.

Why should they spend the $$$ to repair or replace if some idiot is only going to damage the machine again.

There are other laundry facilities available. It may be inconvenient for you to use them, but that is irrelevant.

Answer 2

Sorry but laundry facilities is NOT a required amenity- it is a convenience.

There is very little that you can do to force a landlord to fix something that is not required to be provided.

Answer 3

I would go to your local housing department and ask questions about your rights.  I'm not sure if there are any since the laundry room is a facility in the common areas of your apartment building, rather than the unit itself, but you should definitely take a look at your local housing department and see.

This is the government link to housing departments, where you'll be able to find your state's link.  

http://www.hud.gov/renting/index.cfm

Answer 4

I attended a class by the local Small Claims Court judge.  He said to come to him and fill out a 10 day Notice for the landlord.  THe landlord must fix the problem in 10 days or the judge will release you from your lease and maybe award you money.

If you move out in the middle of the night or refuse to pay rent, the judge will be unhappy with you./