Landlord Fined for Renting Apartments as Dorm Rooms

DOB issued a violation notice to landlord for converting two class “A” apartments into dormitory rooms. Landlord argued that the apartments remained class “A” units and there was no violation. The ALJ ruled against landlord and fined it $1,200. Landlord appealed and lost. The two apartments had been converted to dormitory use, which was contrary to the building’s Certificate of Occupancy. The C of O authorized three Class “A” apartments on the seventh and eighth floors of the building. DOB’s inspector found sign-in sheets on each floor for students of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. DOB’s inspector also found that the apartments each had four bedrooms, with two or three persons per room. The ALJ had permitted reduction of the violation from a Class 1 to a Class 2. 

19 West 55 St. Property LLC: ECB App. No. 1501397 (2/25/16) [3-pg. doc.]