Invoice for Renovation Work Wasn't Fraudulent

(Decision submitted by James R. Marino of the Manhattan law firm of Kucker Kraus & Bruh, LLP, attorneys for the landlord.) Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. Landlord submitted proof of apartment improvements costing $10,700, which were made before tenant moved in and for which landlord collected a 1/40th rent increase. The DRA ruled against tenant, finding no overcharge. Tenant appealed, claiming that landlord's building super did the work, not a contractor. Tenant claimed that landlord's invoices for the work were fraudulent. The DHCR held a hearing. Landlord's contractor stated that he did the work, and the DHCR found his testimony to be credible.

Lavinsky: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. LL210007RT (5/4/99) [2-pg. doc.]