Choosing the Right Laundry Room: Crucial for Resident Satisfaction and Building Revenue

A laundry room is a prized amenity, making your selection of a laundry room vendor a decision that can significantly impact both resident satisfaction and building revenue. Success means more than just installing machines, says Denise Savino, president of the laundry equipment supplier Automatic Industries, it requires an understanding of technology, legal requirements, contract options and strategic timing. 

User-friendly. High-tech has changed the way we do laundry, thanks to smart machines that can be operated remotely and text messages when a load is done. When choosing equipment, building demographics should guide your technology choices. While state-of-the-art machines appeal to many, you may need to keep some of your older models that are easier to use for senior residents. Also consider customer service capabilities, Savino says. Some residents aren’t comfortable with online problem solving, so it’s important that your vendor provide phone support. Laundry rooms can also be made more user-friendly by putting up clear signage in multiple languages.

Code compliant. Many laundry rooms have been in existence for years, and are only now learning that they are not code compliant. The city has become stricter about enforcing regulations, particularly when it comes to gas lines and sprinkler systems. “Ideally, your vendor will be able to educate you on how to comply so you can avoid potential shutdowns by Con Edison,” Savino says. “Whenever we’re on site and scoping out the laundry room, we try to give boards guidance on compliance.”

Contracts. Laundry room contracts come in a variety of styles, and it’s important to negotiate one that suits the needs of your building. Boards can choose between flat-rate agreements with fixed monthly equipment rental fees or percentage-based contracts where vendors receive a portion of machine revenue. “In some cases, hybrid contracts are used, especially in buildings where usage fluctuates seasonally, like those with snowbird residents who live elsewhere during the winter,” Savino says. “These contracts guarantee a fixed rent during slower periods, but allow for additional revenue-sharing when usage peaks.” The choice often depends on whether you prioritize amenity value or revenue generation.

Quality of service. Service quality should be a primary consideration when evaluating vendors, says Savino. You have to ask the right questions, including how quickly technicians can respond to problems and what type of customer support is available when issues arise. ”Technology can monitor machine malfunctions, but physical inspections by staff are still essential,” Savino says. “Machines sometimes require fixes that can't always be addressed remotely.”

Timing. Pay attention to your contract end date, as it plays a vital role in either a renewal term or new vendor selection. Savino recommends starting the process early. “It can be a year in advance of the renewal date, or six months at the minimum,” she says. “That gives you time to speak to other vendors and negotiate the best terms.” Another reason to start early is to protect yourself against automatic renewal clauses that could lock your co-op or condo into unwanted long-term commitments. “Taking the time to explore other options will help you avoid being tied to a contract you no longer find favorable.”