Itemized Breakdown of Improvement Costs Required

Tenant complained of a rent overcharge. Landlord claimed that it had completely renovated the apartment. But, before the complaint could be decided, landlord went bankrupt and the building was sold. The DRA asked current landlord to document the cost of the renovations. Current landlord sent the DRA a copy of a contractor's bill. The bill had been issued with the same address as prior landlord, and listed one of landlord's partners as the contractor. The DRA asked current landlord to provide an itemized bill for the alleged improvements, but landlord stated that it couldn't comply because the contractor was no longer in business. The DRA ruled for tenant, and landlord appealed. The DHCR also ruled for tenant. Since the contractor and prior landlord appeared to be closely connected, the DHCR had properly asked for an itemized bill so that it could closely scrutinize the alleged improvement costs.

279 East Houston St., Apt. 4A: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. Nos. HK 410154-RT, HJ 410004-RO (11/23/94) [6-page document]