I think Both Sir Humphrey & David Ng have miss interpreted the first line from the OP ( unit of housing department ) traditionally this style of housing is wholly owned & managed by a state government / local council / housing authority. As suggested by David Ng, check the fuse box first, if this is NOT an option, contact your point of contact at relevant government / council / authority, there may be the option to disable your mums power point in the Laundry.
( ie get an electrician to terminate the wiring behind the Power outlet! )