Lack of Janitorial Service Not Minor Condition

Tenants complained of a reduction in building-wide services. The DRA ruled for tenants and reduced their rents. Landlord later applied for rent restoration based on the restoration of services. The DRA ruled against landlord, who appealed and won in part. Landlord argued that a lack of janitorial services, as well as the placement of bicycles, pots, plastic containers, and other items on the stairs and hallways by tenants were minor conditions that didn't warrant rent reductions. The DHCR agreed that the items placed in the common areas by tenants were a hazardous condition but unrelated to tenants' service complaint or application to restore rent. But janitorial services weren't being maintained in several areas of the building. This wasn't a minor condition.

Quentin Estates LLC: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. ZB210002RO (10/14/11) [3-pg. doc.]