Frustration as 33 neighbours forced to share one washing machine in block of flats in Sheffield
Neighbours are up at the crack of dawn like holidaygoers reserving sun loungers in the hope of getting a chance to use the one working washing machine in their building
A Sheffield pensioner says he and his 32 neighbours have had to share one washing machine between them for weeks while waiting for repairs.
Freddie Hamilton, aged 73, says he and the other residents of Mary Tozer House, Lydgate Lane, are up at the crack of dawn like holidaygoers reserving sun loungers at the pool to get a chance to use the one working washing machine in their building.
They should have two washers and two dryers between them, but have now been waiting weeks for repairs from housing operator Places For People, Freddie claims.
“What do we pay our service charges for?” Freddie said.
“They take £13 a week from 32 residents. That’s £52 a month and £624 a year. They can afford a new washing machine any time.
“I’ve been living there four years and it’s been going on four years. It breaks down, they come out and fix it, and it breaks down again.
“And if everyone is using the same washing machine all day long it’s going to wear out even quicker.
“Everyone is very frustrated. Everyone tries not to use the machines after 7.30pm so it isn’t loud for the flat right next to the laundry room.
“I want new machines and I wouldn’t mind a refund for the weeks of service charges for laundry costs we haven’t used.”
Frustratingly, the wait comes after Freddie already complained directly to Places For People CEO Greg Reed in a letter signed by 18 residents in February - a complaint which the firm upheld and agreed to solve.
When Freddie wrote on February 17 pointing out one machine was often broken with faulty buttons and the other had a rubber seal he branded “falling apart,” Places For People wrote back on March 11 saying he was right and they would fix it in the new financial year.
This was nearly three months ago.
The Star has contacted Places For People on when it expects to solve the issue.
A Places for People spokesperson said: “We’re very sorry for the disruption residents at Mary Tozer House have experienced with the communal laundry facilities and understand how frustrating this situation has been.
“We agree that new, reliable equipment is needed and ordered two new washing machines and two tumble dryers, which were due to be installed in early April.
“Unfortunately, this was delayed after it became clear the existing electrical infrastructure is not sufficient to support the new equipment safely.
“Further electrical upgrades are required, and a contractor attended site today (Friday) to assess the works, and we are now finalising plans to get the machines installed as soon as possible.
“We are aware that only one washing machine is currently operational and want to reassure residents that we are working to resolve this as quickly as possible and will keep them updated on timescales.
“While the service charge covers a range of services, including laundry provision, we can review any service shortfalls in line with our complaints and compensation policy.”