New Landlord Didn't Submit Information Requested by DHCR

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on new gas piping. The DRA ruled against landlord after landlord failed to respond to DHCR requests for additional information. Landlord appealed and lost. Landlord claimed that it bought the building a month after the MCI increase application was filed by prior landlord and that the DRA mailed requests for additional information to prior landlord. Landlord submitted copies of requested bank statements with its PAR. The DHCR pointed out that although new landlord submitted a Report of Change in Ownership or Address to the DHCR and noted the new managing agent, landlord didn't indicate that the consulting firm that filed the MCI application for prior landlord was no longer the agent in charge of landlord's pending MCI application. The consulting firm in fact continued to respond to various DRA requests for additional information and sent extension requests stating that the building had been sold to new landlord. The DHCR wouldn't accept the bank statements submitted for the first time on appeal.

511 West 151 LLC: DHCR Adm. Rev. Docket No. EX410036RO (3/28/19) [2-pg. doc.]