Landlord Gets Increase for First-Time Painting of Rent-Controlled Apartment

Landlord asked the DHCR to increase rent-controlled tenant's rent after landlord painted the apartment for the first time. Landlord spent $1,800 to paint, and said she would paint the apartment every three years. The DRA ruled for landlord and increased tenant's rent by $45 per month. Tenant appealed, claiming that the increase was too high. The DHCR ruled against tenant. Painting wasn't provided previously and so wasn't a required service included in tenant's rent. Landlord proved the cost of the painting and was entitled to the rent increase approved by the DRA.

Goodman: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. SC120011RT (6/18/04) [2-pg. doc.]