New Staircase Qualifies

Landlord applied for MCI rent hikes based on the installation of a new staircase in the building. The DRA ruled for landlord. Tenants appealed, claiming that landlord did the work without proper permits and under unsafe conditions. They also said the marble steps were slippery when wet. The DHCR ruled against tenants. Landlord complied with the DHCR rules by submitting proper documentation of the work and its cost. Questions concerning permits or safety of the stairs must be directed to DOB. And whether the stairs were slippery was a building maintenance issue, not an MCI issue.

Fink: DHCR Adm. Rev. Dckt. No. RK430060RT (3/23/05) [3-pg. doc.]