Tenant Services FAQs

Q. Why is a central laundry room better than having a washer and dryer in my apartment?
A. There are several reasons why this is true. For example, the infrastructure of the property may not accommodate in-unit washers and dryers, so it's a space saver. It also can be more efficient and cost-effective on several levels: With a laundry room, you can do several loads at the same time, thereby reducing the amount of time you spend doing laundry each week and also wash big, bulky items that you'd have to send out if you had an in-unit set up. Plus, you don't have to spend money upfront on a machine to enjoy the convenience, or worry about repair bills. Finally, it's great for the environment, helping to save energy and water.

Q. Does a central laundry room add value to my co-op/condo?
A. Many times, SDI has been told by resident managers and landlords that a state-of-the-art, high tech, energy efficient central laundry room adds value to either the share price or the rental value of the apartment — because a laundry room is viewed as a valued-added service being provided to the residents of the building.

Q. If my machines require servicing, what is your overall turn-around time?
A. We are the only laundry vendor in the New York Metropolitan area which provides 24-hour turnaround service — seven days a week.

Q. I'm a new tenant. How do I get a Smart Card?
A. It depends on where you live. If your building has a Diamond Center Plus machine or a Value Transfer Machine (VTM) with card dispensing capabilities in the laundry room, you can purchase a Smart Card directly from the machine. For all other buildings, contact your building superintendent or the management company and a Smart Card will be issued to you. Otherwise, call Service Directions at 1-800-945-WASH (9274) and we'll mail one directly to you.

Q. Where is the Value Transfer Machine (VTM) located in my building?
A. They're typically found in the laundry room. If one is not there, check your building lobby, mail room, management office, or package room. Or, ask building security for the exact location.

Q. How do I use my Smart Card?
A. Easy-to-follow directions are on the Value Transfer Machine (VTM). You can always call SDI at 1-800-945-WASH (9274) — or click on Problem with My Card — if you have any difficulties operating the machine or with your Smart Card.

Q. How can I receive a refund if I've lost money in a washer or dryer?
A. If your machines operate by coins — or you use a Smart Card and there's no Coded Value Adder (CVA) machine in your laundry room — then call SDI at 1-800-945-WASH (9274) or contact us and our Customer Service Department will issue you a refund check directly within 7 to 10 business days. If you use a Smart Card and your laundry room has a CVA machine, use the CVA to receive an immediate refund.

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