Installation of New Furniture

LVT Number: 18386

Landlord asked the DHCR if it could charge rent-stabilized tenant a 1/40th rent increase for new furniture installed in a vacant apartment. In an opinion letter, the DHCR pointed out that it had no definition of furniture or furnishings. Landlord said it wanted to install a plasma television, Murphy bed, sofa, recliner, dining room/kitchen chairs, lamps, cookware, dinnerware, bedding, dresser, armoire, rugs, blinds, and a computer. The DHCR said that these items would qualify as 1/40th apartment improvements.

Landlord asked the DHCR if it could charge rent-stabilized tenant a 1/40th rent increase for new furniture installed in a vacant apartment. In an opinion letter, the DHCR pointed out that it had no definition of furniture or furnishings. Landlord said it wanted to install a plasma television, Murphy bed, sofa, recliner, dining room/kitchen chairs, lamps, cookware, dinnerware, bedding, dresser, armoire, rugs, blinds, and a computer. The DHCR said that these items would qualify as 1/40th apartment improvements. However, if these items were included in tenant's rent, they would become required services and landlord would have to maintain them.

DHCR Opin. Ltr. by Michael B Rosenblatt (2/14/05)